ELDER ROBERT E. CARTER, 75, was born on October 7, 1939 in Scott County, VA, the son of the late Rev. Robert Todd and Estelle Pippin Carter. He earned all-state honors in basketball at Virginia High School, and went on to star at the University of Tennessee. Carter graduated with a Master's in Education, then taught and coached at Beaver High School in Beaver, PA, Humboldt High School in Humboldt, TN and Union University in Jackson. He later had a successful career with the Coca-Cola Bottling Works in Jackson, from which he retired as Executive Vice-President.

Bobby was actively involved in the Jackson community, working with uncounted education, health, and children's causes. He was instrumental in the founding of the Episcopal Day School, where both of his children attended, and he volunteered as basketball coach for several years. Among many honors, he was the Exchange Club's Man of the Year in Jackson in 1986.

In 1994, he was elected to the Tennessee State Senate, representing District 27. He served two terms, earning a reputation for integrity and commitment.

His highest calling was his service to the Lord. He faithfully served for 32 years as pastor of Gardner's Chapel Church, the church his father founded in Bristol.

He is survived by 1 daughter, Genny Lee Carter; 1 son, Russ Carter; their mother, his former wife, Pauline Taber Carter; 2 grandchildren; and 1 great granddaughter. He also leaves 4 loving sisters, Betty Sue Schaughency, Mary Lou Smith, Sara Hue Odum, and Estelle "Cookie" Johnson, and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and a large extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; stepmother, Juanita Copenhaver Carter; stepsister, Libby Copenhaver; 1 nephew, and 1 grandson.

-Written by the clerk