Keith Edward Carter

PAYNE, OH:

Keith Edward Carter, 91, of Payne, passed away Tuesday, June, 23, 2026, at his home.

Keith was born in Payne on July 16, 1934, a son of the late Ruth (Bradford) Hammond & George Carter.

Keith was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and community member whose life was marked by hard work, service, and family. He proudly served his country in the Army 82nd Airborne. Many in Payne remember him fondly as the Payne barber, where he provided not only haircuts but also friendship and conversation. He later worked for BF Goodrich, Durable Medical, and Benton Township. On January 14, 1956, he married the love of his life, Ruth (Lunn), and together they built a loving family and shared many happy years. Keith was active in the Early Birds 4-H Club, a member of Flat Rock Masonic Lodge No. 580 for 65 years, active in the Paulding County Historical Society, and a Payne firefighter and EMT who played an integral role in establishing those services in the community. In his free time, he enjoyed woodworking, caring for his lawn, traveling with family—especially fishing trips to Wisconsin—and trying his luck on the slot machines. His kindness, dedication, and love for family will be remembered by all who knew him.

He will be sadly missed by his children, Sandra (Kelly) Davis, Brian (Pandora) Carter, & Christina (Samuel) Flynn; 10 grandchildren; & 15 great grandchildren.

He was also preceded in death by his wife, Ruth in 2003, and his sister, Nancy Karris.

He will be laid to rest privately in Lehman Cemetery.

Memorials are to the Paulding County Nurses Auxiliary (to support Paulding County hospice nurses) 250 Dooley Dr Ste A, Paulding, OH 45879.

Fond memories may be shared at dooleyfuneralhome.com.