In Memory of Stephen (Steve) Daniel Carter

Stephen (Steve) Daniel Carter, 64, of Cloudcroft, New Mexico, passed away unexpectedly on March 21, 2026, at his home. Steve was born on March 19, 1962, to Daniel Carter and Marilyn Brown (formerly Carter), and leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and unwavering devotion to his family and friends.

Steve shared a beautiful love story with his wife, Carol, whom he had known since kindergarten. They were married on August 23, 1980, and were inseparable for 45 years. They were best friends, adventure partners, and travel companions, as well as each other’s greatest love. Together, they built a beautiful life full of memories and laughter.

Steve’s greatest joy in life was his daughter, Stephanie, his son-in-law, Curtis, and his three beautiful grandchildren, whom he lovingly called “Poppy’s Pals,” Zoe, Ashleigh (May 4, 2010), and Grayson. He loved them deeply and proudly shared stories about them every chance he had. To his grandchildren, he was proudly known as “Poppy,” a name that meant more to him than any other. Time spent with them brought him immeasurable joy.

Steve was a man who lived life to the fullest. He was always active, full of energy, and gave 110 percent to everything he did. He loved playing sports, whether on the basketball court, playing softball, or, in later years, discovering a passion for pickleball, which he enjoyed nearly every day during his retirement. He cherished time with friends, shared laughter, and never passed up the opportunity to make memories.

For over 40 years, Steve dedicated his career to American Airlines, where he was known as an incredible leader who led with integrity, wisdom, and genuine care for others. After retiring in June 2024, he stepped into a new chapter, excited to live out the dreams he and Carol had worked so hard to achieve.

Beyond his career, Steve faithfully served as Pastor of Eden Blessing Tabernacle for 13 years. He had a special gift for making the Bible understandable and meaningful to everyone he reached. He loved Jesus deeply and was passionate about teaching others to know Him, often encouraging others to seek faith and reminding them that no one is promised tomorrow.

Steve leaves behind a legacy of faith, leadership, kindness, and love. He will be remembered as a man who stood strong in his beliefs, honored God in all circumstances, and lived with gratitude for the life he was given.

To the world, he was Steve. To his family, he was Honey, Dad, and Poppy. He will be deeply missed, but his family finds comfort in knowing he lived fully, loved deeply, and now rests in the presence of the Lord.

Steve is survived by his mother and stepfather, Marilyn and Ken Brown; his wife, Carol; his daughter, Stephanie Whitlock and son-in-law, Curtis Whitlock; his grandchildren, Zoe Whitlock and Grayson Whitlock; his sisters, Becky Shimmel and her husband, Claire Shimmel, and Beth Jackson and her husband, Jeff Jackson; countless uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Daniel Carter; his grandmother, Bernice Hotchkiss; and his granddaughter, Ashleigh Whitlock.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Alamogordo Funeral Home, 2301 First Street, Alamogordo, New Mexico.

A graveside Celebration of Life service will be held at 3:00 pm on Friday, March 27, 2026, at James Canyon Cemetery in Mayhill, New Mexico, off of US Highway 82.