Raby Lewis Carter

Raby Lewis Carter, age 85 of Murphy, NC passed away Thursday, October 22, 2026.

He was a native and lifelong resident of Cherokee County, NC and the son of the late Butler and Lucy Kephart Carter. Raby dedicated over 30 years of his life to the North Carolina Forest Service as a mechanic. He enjoyed watching races at the Tri County Race Track and indulged in the excitement of wrestling matches. Raby also had a special fondness for tractors and big equipment. He was a member of Ebenezer Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Loretta Coleman Carter; and one brother, Ralph Carter.

He is survived by his daughters, Barbara Carter Cruse (Jimmy Messer), Rebecca Carter Mathis and Betsy Carter (Bryan Chambers); one sister, Glenda Sneed (Odis); five grandchildren: Cynthia Michelle Mathis, James Edward Mathis, Brittany Danielle Carter, Daniel Cruse, and John Cruse; as well as seven great-grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be held at 2 pm, Sunday, October 25, 2026 at the Townson-Rose Funeral Home Chapel in Murphy. Rev. Kenneth Dockery will officiate. Music will be provided by his granddaughter, Cynthia Mathis. Burial will be in the Ebenezer Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Jamie Mathis, Daniel Cruse, John Cruse, Bryan Chambers, Jimmy Setser, Phillip Moore, Jason Matoy and Jimmy Messer.

The family will receive friends from 12 pm to 2 pm, Sunday, October 25, 2026 at the Townson-Rose Funeral Home.

Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.