Ronnie L. Carter

MSgt. Ronnie L. Carter, USAF (Ret.), 82, a decorated Vietnam War veteran and hero, entered into rest on Thursday, February 1, 2024. 

Born on June 20, 1941, in Winter Haven, Florida, Ronnie embarked on a remarkable 20-year career in the United States Air Force. His commitment and valor were showcased during the Vietnam War while serving his two tours, where he undertook combat missions. Among his numerous commendations, Ronnie proudly received the Air Force Presidential Unit Citation and the Air Medal with two devices, including the prestigious Oak Leaf Cluster, for his heroic achievements in aerial flight. His service also extended to flying and maintaining the Special Operations MC-130E Combat Talons with the 7th Special Operations Squadron. 

While stationed in Germany, Ronnie's passion for antique European clocks blossomed into a lifelong hobby. An avid collector, he scoured flea markets for clocks across Germany, France, and England. With his generous spirit, he meticulously restored the clocks and gave them away as cherished gifts for friends and family. Among his prized possessions was a German grandfather clock, a labor of love that held a special place in his heart. 

Following his military service, Ronnie continued to contribute to his community, working civil service at Robins Air Force Base as an F-15 Planner/Scheduler. 

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ronnie's hands were always in motion, and he could be found tinkering in his workshop. He devoted hours to the intricate craft of repairing various machinery, from lawnmowers and cars to farm equipment and clocks. His fondness for old cars and trucks was evident as he took pleasure in the simple joy of riding down dirt roads. 

Ronnie also enjoyed spending time in the great outdoors. He loved caring for his vegetable garden and found joy in picking and cracking pecans grown on his own land. He also loved deer hunting on his property and enjoyed fishing in the local lakes and ponds. Ronnie also appreciated the opportunity to travel throughout Europe with family and friends. Exploring historical museums, architectural wonders, and iconic landmarks, he embraced the beauty of different cultures and histories. 

In addition to Ronnie’s parents, L.C. Carter, Sr. and Ethel Carter; his brothers, Floyd Carter, Max Carter, LC Carter Jr., preceded him in death. 

His memory will forever be treasured by his wife of 63 years, Elizabeth Ann Carter of Bonaire, Georgia; children, Kevin Carter (Cyndi) of Bonaire, Georgia, Dean Carter of Kathleen, Georgia, and Wendy Diessner (Bill) of Trophy Club, Texas; grandchildren, Jennifer Calhoun (Jesse) of Perry, Georgia, Jason Carter (Jennie) of Kathleen, Travis Carter (Ashley) of Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, Nicholas Diessner of Dallas, Texas, Rachel Diessner of Dallas, Texas, William Diessner (Addison) of O’Fallon, Illinois, Matthew Diessner (Fiancé, Caroline Peavy) of The Colony, Texas, and Sarah Diessner of Trophy Club, Texas; great-grandchildren, Chandler Calhoun of Warner Robins, Georgia, Jodi Calhoun of Macon, Georgia, Cade Calhoun of Perry, Georgia, and Brooks Carter of Kathleen, Georgia, along with many other loving family members and friends. 

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 15, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at McCullough Funeral Home.  A funeral service will immediately follow at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of McCullough Funeral Home.  Afterward, Ronnie will be laid to rest in a private committal service at Magnolia Park Mausoleum with Full Military Honors. 

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests memorial donations be given in memory of Ronnie Carter to Georgia Sheriffs’ Association at 1000 Sheriffs Way, Madison, GA 30650. 

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family.  McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.