Robert Eugene "Gene" Carter

Robert Eugene "Gene" Carter, 88, of Live Oak, Florida, peacefully entered his Heavenly home on Monday, July 6, 2026, at Haven Hospice in Gainesville, Florida, surrounded by the love of his family.

Gene was born on June 8, 1938. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy for four years before beginning a career marked by dedication, integrity, and hard work. Throughout his working years, he was employed by Ratliff Motor Company, National Standard Life Insurance Company, Crapps Cadillac, and Hopkins Motor Company, where he built many lasting friendships before retiring at the age of 65.

Gene attended Pinemount Baptist Church in McAlpin, Florida, for many years, where he served as a deacon, choir director, and Sunday school teacher. During that season of his life, he touched countless lives through his leadership, music, and steadfast Christian faith.

Music was one of Gene's greatest passions. He loved Bluegrass and Gospel music and could often be found at the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park Pickin' Shed, playing his mandolin and singing with the Suwannee River Bluegrass Association. Some of his happiest moments were spent performing alongside his beloved wife, Rachel, whose beautiful harmony made the music—and the memories—even sweeter. His daughter, Vonda, also frequently joined them, playing guitar and singing, creating treasured family memories that will be cherished forever.

Gene also enjoyed fishing, camping, attending Bluegrass and Gospel music festivals, and spending time with those he loved most. Whether around a campfire, at a music festival, or gathered with family, he was known for his quick wit, contagious sense of humor, and ability to make everyone laugh. He never met a stranger and leaves behind countless memories filled with smiles, laughter, and love.

More than anything, Gene treasured his family. He was an incredibly proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose greatest joy was watching his family grow. His love, guidance, and steady example of faith will remain with them forever.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rachel Gill Carter; his parents, Oscar and Blanche Carter; his sisters, Kathleen "Kitty" Smith, Lois Carter, and Mable Carter; and his brothers, Glenn Carter, Ernest Carter, and Henry Carter.

He is survived by his son, Del Carter; his daughter, Vonda (Dennis) Carter Brown; his brother, Virgil (Jannette) Carter; his sisters, Linda Taylor and Sheila Garrison; his granddaughter, Lindsay Brown Detweiler; and his three treasured great-grandsons, Ryder Dale Detweiler, Abel Jace Detweiler, and Carter Gentry Detweiler, along with many extended family members and dear friends who will miss him greatly.

Per Gene's wishes, he will be cremated, and a private memorial service celebrating his life will be held by the family at a later date.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate nurses, physicians, chaplains, and staff of Haven Hospice for the exceptional love, dignity, comfort, and care they provided during Gene's final days. Their kindness will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Haven Hospice in honor of Gene Carter, so they may continue providing compassionate end-of-life care to families in need, or to the Spirit of the Suwannee Children's Music Camp, helping ensure that the love of Bluegrass music continues to live on in future generations.

Though our hearts are broken, we rejoice in knowing that Gene has been reunited with the love of his life, Rachel, and is now singing in Heaven. We can only imagine the beautiful Bluegrass and Gospel music they are making together once again. His legacy of faith, music, laughter, kindness, and love will live on in all who were blessed to know him.

Please take a moment to sign the guestbook and keep the family in your prayers.