William “Bill” Ray Carter

William (Bill) Ray Carter 86, of Indianapolis, went home to be with the Lord on May 26, 2024. He was born on the 29th of May in 1937, to the late Ida Matthews and Robert William Carter. He was a loving and hard-working husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Bill was a dedicated Christian that held firm in his belief. He is preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Beckie, and two son-in-laws. He is survived by his devoted wife, Suzzette (Cooley) Carter. They married on August 30, 1991, and spent thirty-two wonderful, fulfilling years making memories to last a lifetime. Their blended family consisted of six children: Beckie (Jose) Reigosa, Barb (Bob) Robbins, Jennifer Carter, Lecia (Tim) Miller, Billy (Cynthia) Carter Jr., and Scott (Michelle) Ward. Over the years they gained thirteen grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his twin brother Robert (Sue) Carter with two nieces and a nephew, who admired their uncle deeply.

After high school, Bill entered the pipe trades and began his plumbing career. He joined the Local 440 Plumbers, Steamfitters and HVAC Service Technicians in 1966. He spent fifty-seven years as a committed member, adopting the nicknames “Wild Bill” and “Billy Carter”. His main hobbies over the years included fishing and spending time with family. Bill and Suzzette spent several summers with family and friends at their Raccoon Lake get-away with stories full of laughter. Endless card nights, birthday parties, cook-outs, and cornhole tournaments held Bill and his family close. He will be missed by many for his everlasting charm, wit, and strength.