Donald Carter Obituary

Donald R. Carter

August 10, 1940 -

September 4, 2025

KINGSPORT - Donald R. Carter, 85, Kingsport, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 4, 2025. Born on August 10, 1940, in Kingsport, Don lived a life of service, leadership, and devotion to his family, community, and beloved East Tennessee State University (ETSU).

A proud native of Kingsport, Don graduated from ETSU in 1962 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, where he was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. He went on to earn a master's degree in Guidance and Counseling from ETSU in 1964. While completing his graduate studies in 1963, Don began what would become a storied and impactful career in higher education administration.

He trained to become Director of the University Center at ETSU, a position he held with distinction until 1985. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in the design and development of the D.P. Culp University Center, collaborating closely with architects for its construction in 1976. Don was an influential administrator of the Campus Activities Board and helped guide the transformation of ETSU's Student Personnel Department into the Division of Student Affairs.

A national leader in campus life, Don was a founding organizer of the National Association of Campus Activities (NACA), serving on its Board of Directors until 1976. For his outstanding service and visionary contributions, he was honored with NACA's prestigious Founder's Award. He also represented ETSU with pride and commitment through the Miss ETSU Scholarship Pageant, the Buccaneer Yearbook, the Johnson City Chamber of Commerce, and as a regional representative for the Association of College Unions International.

In 1985, Don briefly left academia to serve as the first General Manager of Johnson City's Sheraton Plaza Hotel and Convention Center. However, his heart remained in higher education, and in 1986 he returned to ETSU as Director of the Pirate Club, leading fundraising efforts for student-athlete scholarships until his retirement in 1997.

Don's life was not only marked by professional achievement but by deep personal joy. He loved boating, especially on Watauga Lake, his "happy place" where he spent over 40 years making memories with family and friends. A master of the grill, he was known for his signature dry-rub BBQ ribs, often served at cherished family dinners. He was also a lifelong Bridge player, a passion that began in college and continued through his later years at the Jonesborough Senior Citizens Center.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Leah E. "Bunny" Ketchersid Carter; his son, Clinton C. Carter; his parents, Eunice Pierson Carter and Richard Carter.

Don is survived by his son, Casey C. Carter and daughter-in-law, Holly Gibson Carter of Tampa, FL; adored grandchildren, Brannen Kay Carter of Nashville and Smith Pierson Carter of Auburn, AL; the loving mother of his two children Nancy K. Carter of Johnson City. He also leaves a wide circle of friends and former colleagues who will miss his warmth, wisdom, and unwavering dedication.

Donald R. Carter was a devoted son, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend. His legacy at ETSU and in the lives of all who knew him will live on for generations.

A private family service was held, with a celebration of life to follow at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Don's memory to either the ETSU Athletics (etsubucs.com) or the Jonesborough Senior Citizens Center (jonesboroughtn.org/government/make-a-donation/), where he spent many joyful hours playing Bridge and building community in his later years.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.tetrickfuneralservices.com.

Tetrick Funeral Services, Johnson City, is honored to serve the Carter family (423-610-7171).