I.J. "Tom" Carter, age 76 of Valley Springs, AR passed away Saturday, August 9, 2008 at North Arkansas Regional Medical Center.

He was born September 11, 1931 at Snowball, Arkansas, the son of Garfield and Isabel Carter.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Linda Carter of the home; his sons, Ed Carter and wife, Debbie of Rogers and Tim Loggins of Valley Springs; his daughter, Diana Huff and husband, Jeff; five grandchildren, Beth Andreasen, Daniel Carter, Kristin Morgan, Lacy Loggins, and Shelby Journigan; three great-grandchildren, Keegan Morgan, Isaac Timothy Loggins, and Valerie Andreasen; two brothers, J.Z. Carter and wife, Margie of Valley Springs and Donald Carter and wife, Lavern of Bergman; one sister, Mary Lee Smith of Omaha; and father-in-law and mother-in-law Delmar and Marjorie Freeman of Marshall. He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant brother, William Clyde.

Tom was a member of the Western Grove Masonic Lodge #103 and a 32nd degree Mason. He enjoyed his years with the Arkansas Highway Department. After his retirement he devoted his time to his love of horses, taking care of livestock, and four-wheel rides with his friends. His greatest enjoyment was the time he spent with family and friends, visiting and reminiscing.
Tom had a very special bond with his brother, J.Z.

Tom touched many lives with his kindness, ready smile, integrity and great sense of humor.

Visitation was Wednesday, August 13, 2008 at Coffman Funeral Home in Harrison with services Thursday, August 14 at the funeral home chapel. Burial followed in Silver Hill Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Ronald Jay Carter, Paul Alan Smith, Virgil Fiveash, Vernon Smith, Gary Jenkins and Joe Fisher. Honorary pallbearers were Lewie B. Killebrew, Gale Ruhwedel, Members of Bluff Springs Lodge #103, District #9 Highway Department and Dr. Charles Klepper and nursing staff.

Online condolences may be left at www.coffmanfh.com