Billy Don Carter

Billy Don Carter passed away on November 27, 2025, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Billy was born in Athens, Texas, to Melvin “Buck” and Jearline Carter. Billy enjoyed growing up in Athens surrounded by his loving parents and older siblings, David and Debbie. He was also surrounded by a large extended family with many close cousins and warm family gatherings with aunts, uncles and grandparents. He had many childhood adventures, from climbing trees, building forts and crossing pastures chased by bulls. There were also many happy fishing trips with his father and uncle. Billy was a man of faith and accepted Jesus as his Savior early in life.

Upon graduation from Athens High School, Billy made his way to Arlington, Texas, to attend The University of Texas at Arlington. While at UTA Billy joined a fraternity – Beta Theta Pi where he gained lifelong brothers. Billy enjoyed a long successful career in retail, having managed several thriving stores. Many of his customers knew him by name because he was so personable and had a great sense of humor.

Billy was a loving husband and stepfather to two sons, Sean and Donald. He was also a doting grandfather to two little girls, Violet and Cora. Family meant the world to Billy and Billy meant the world to his family. Billy loved animals and even the most timid animals were drawn to him knowing his heart was pure. Billy’s calm demeanor and strength will be missed.

Billy is survived by his wife of 23 years, Kathy Carter of Sachse, Texas; his stepsons Sean and Donald Hill of Arlington, Texas; his granddaughters Violet and Cora of Arlington, Texas; his brother and sister-in-law David and Tammy Carter of Tyler, Texas; his nephews Will and Jaime Carter of Tyler, Texas; his sister, Debbie Carter of Athens, Texas; his nephew Aaron Martin of South Carolina; his niece and nephew-in-law, Aimee and Tom Soldatovic of Destin, Florida.