William Robert Carter Jr.

William “Bill” R. Carter Jr., 86, of London, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 21, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Columbus, Ohio on February 4th, 1939, Bill was the son of William “Nick” and Louise Carter. A proud 1957 graduate of London High School, he dedicated his life to the family grocery business as owner of Carter’s Market, a community staple for more than 125 years. Under his leadership, Carter’s became well known for its exceptional meats, drawing loyal customers from miles around. Following his retirement from the family grocery store, Bill dedicated over a decade to working at Stanley Electric.

On May 2, 1959, Bill married his high school sweetheart, Anne Goodson. Together they shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and memories for more than 65 years.

Bill was passionate about life and found his greatest joy in time spent with his family and his beloved pets. A devoted lifetime member of St. Patrick’s Church, he faithfully served as an usher at the 7:30 a.m. mass for many years and was also an active member of the Knights of Columbus.

Bill was an avid sports fan, with a special love for the OSU Buckeyes. He also loved being outdoors and took tremendous pride in caring for his yard and flower beds. Bird watching was another of his favorite pastimes, especially when the Martins returned each year. He also cherished the simple pleasure of sitting out front, waving to, and visiting with friends, neighbors, and their pets as they passed by.

Among his many accomplishments, Bill was especially proud of his induction into the London High School Athletic Hall of Fame, where he was honored for his exceptional achievements in football, track, and basketball.

Bill is survived by his wife of 65 years, Anne, (Goodson) Carter, his sister, Kay (Tom) Reed, his sisters in-law & brothers in-law, Donna and Al Dickerson and Sandy and David Blount. He’s also survived by his children, Randy (Betsy) Carter, Jeanne (Mike) Elfrink and Tracy Carter along with his grandchildren, Julie (Dr. Anthony) Miniaci, Megan Carter (Matthew Dickey), Dr. Allison Carter (Brian Vaughn), Derrick (Jami) Elfrink, Alexa (Nicholas) Girardi, Adam Carter (Will Mintler), Katie Carter, Nathan Carter and his great-grandchildren, Rose & Aiden Miniaci, Drew Girardi as well as numerous nieces & nephews.

Bill is proceeded in death by his son, Chris Carter, his parents Nick & Louise Carter, brother Richard Carter, and great granddaughter, Logan Elfrink.

Family and friends are invited to call at the St. Patrick Parish Center, 61 South Union Street, London, Ohio 43140, on Saturday, December 27th, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at St. Patrick’s Church, celebrated by Father Slawomir Siok concluding with interment at St. Patrick Cemetery.

Donations may be made in Bill’s honor to the H.E.L.P House, 122 East Center Street, London, OH 43140.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Madison House, the Madison Health Hospital and Affinity Hospice for the excellent and compassionate care he received.