Sam Carter

Sam Lee Carter, 87, of 3345 Mt. Cross Rd., passed away on Monday, October 12, 2015 at Danville Regional Medical Center following a brief period of rapidly declining health after suffering a stroke. Born on November 27, 1927 to Rorer L. and Lula Matthews Carter, Sam grew up on a farm in Pittsylvania County, and spent his life in Danville, with the exception of a stint in the U.S. Navy. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Willa Yeaman Carter, his daughters Lee Ann C. Dillion, Lynn and husband Forrest Burton, Mary Katherine and husband Willard Turpin, and Kim C. Nickens, all of Danville. Sam is also survived by 8 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren: Laurie Ann and Joey Scearce, and Austin and Evan; Jonathan and Stacy Dillion, Carter Lee and Emery; Matthew and Lauren Turpin, and Caiti and Hallie; Emily Burton; Jake and Lisa Turpin, and Elliott and Selah; Bethany Dillion; Sam Burton; and Chaz Nickens, as well as several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, his sister, Wallis C. Martin, and his son, Tim Carter. Sam's life was marked by love for his family, hard work, and helping others. He met Willa Yeaman at Whitmell Farm-Life School, of which he was a graduate, in 7th grade. The childhood sweethearts remained friends through graduation until she moved with family to Norfolk, VA. The two reconnected in Norfolk, where he was stationed, and after his time serving on the U.S.S. Gearing, the couple returned to Danville, and married in 1948. Together, they raised five children, later moving in with his father to care for him. In addition to farm work for much of his life, Sam retired from the Danville City Sheriff's Department. Sam put all of his children through college, and was there to help in any way when needed. Outside of work, he spent hours in his garden and yard, and listening to music. Over the years, Sam and Willa hosted many gatherings at their home for family and friends, and took family vacations each year, most often to Emerald Isle, NC. He enjoyed having fun with his family, and even late in life, he would not hesitate to swim in the ocean or go sledding with his grandchildren. He grew up in Mt. Olivet United Methodist Church, and was later a member of Fairview United Methodist Church, going on mission trips that included work for the Navajo Nation, the Blackfeet Nation, Hurricane Andrew relief work, and the Higher Ground Christian Retreat as well as numerous local and regional missions. Though he towered above most of his family, and had big, rough hands, Sam had a kind heart, would help anyone in need, and never failed to tell his wife, children, and grandchildren that he loved them. Those who knew Sam best will remember him for his strong faith, his kindness, and his stories. He loved Christian fellowship and family above all else. During his final moments, he turned to Willa, who called him Sammy, and opened his eyes to look upon the love of his life one last time. The family will receive friends at Fairview United Methodist Church on Thursday, October 15, 2015 from 7-8:30 p.m. and other times at the residence. The funeral will be held at Fairview United Methodist Church on Friday, October 16, 2015 at 11:00a.m. Interment will follow at Highland Burial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Mt. Cross Fire Dept. or the charity of your choice. Townes Funeral Home, 215 West Main Street, is serving the Carter family. Online condolences can be made at www.townesfuneralhome.com or www.GoDanRiver.com