Norman Eugene Carter's Obituary
N.E. "Gene" Carter, a devoted husband, father, and veteran, passed away peacefully in Tulsa on March 25, 2025. Born on December 14, 1929, in Oklahoma City, Gene lived a life of hard work, service, and family dedication.
Gene grew up on a farm near Siloam Springs, Arkansas, where he attended Kincheloe School for his early education before transferring to Siloam Springs and later Gentry High School, from which he graduated in 1948 as part of a close-knit class of twenty-nine students.
In 1951, Gene was drafted into the U.S. Army and served his country in Korea from 1951 to 1952, demonstrating his commitment to national service. After his military discharge in 1953, he moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he began a successful career in mechanics, working for McDonald Douglas and Interstate Tool before finding his long-term home at American Airlines, where he worked as a mechanic and supervisor for an impressive thirty-six years.
In 1954, Gene married the love of his life, Paula Marie Sugg. Together, they built a loving family, raising two sons, James Lewis and Roland Keith Carter. In 1977, they constructed their family home at on East 7th Street in Tulsa, a place filled with memories of love and companionship.
A man of many interests, Gene was passionate about fishing, hunting, golfing, and traveling with his family. He was an active member of the Masonic Lodge, achieving the thirty-second degree in Consistory. Gene and his family were faithful members of the Harvard Avenue Baptist Church, where they found spiritual community and support.
Known as a jack of all trades and a well-respected family man, Gene took great pride in caring for his wife and sons, especially after his retirement. His warmth, dedication, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Gene is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Paula Carter; sister-in-law, Jane Smith (Mark); niece, Bobbie Lancaster; nephews, Rex and Roger Farley; sister-in-law, Mary Holcomb (Dean); and his sister-in-law, Susan Potter (James).
A funeral ceremony will be held 10 AM Monday in the Rivercrest Chapel. A committal service will be held at 2 PM at the Gentry Cemetery in Gentry, Arkansas.
May Gene rest in peace, remembered always for his love, service, and kindness.
What’s your fondest memory of Norman?
What’s a lesson you learned from Norman?
Share a story where Norman's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Norman you’ll never forget.
How did Norman make you smile?