Robert & Linda Carter

Robert David Carter, born December 11, 1952, in Waco, Texas, to Doyle and Margaret Nichols Carter, and Linda Lorraine “Sunny” Hoekstra Carter, born June 12, 1953, in Chicago, Illinois, to Gerald and Imogene Virginia Barnett Hoekstra, shared a life filled with love, family, learning, creativity, and devotion to one another. They were married on June 8, 1974, and remained devoted partners for more than 52 years.

Robert died in Nashville, Tennessee, on August 27, 2026. Linda died peacefully at home after a long illness in Columbia, Tennessee, on August 26, 2026. Their lives were deeply intertwined, and they leave behind a family who will forever cherish the love and memories they shared.

Robert was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. Throughout his life, he held several occupations, including working as a school bus driver, but he spoke most fondly of his time as a special education teacher. He was a kind and gentle man with a lifelong love of reading and learning. Robert was patient and took the time to truly listen to others. He traveled through life at an unhurried pace, always making room for the people and things he loved most. He loved his wife and his family deeply and will be remembered for his gentle spirit, thoughtful nature, and quiet wisdom.

Linda’s creative nature led her to numerous hobbies throughout her lifetime. She possessed a joyful spirit despite the prolonged illness she endured and was deeply devoted to her family. Linda was especially proud of her children and grandchildren and took great joy in their lives and accomplishments. Her warmth, creativity, and love will remain a lasting part of the family she cherished.

Robert and Linda are survived by their two children, Jordan Lyn Carter of Lewisburg, Tennessee, and Tiffany Alexandria Carter (Steven James “Crash” Wilson), of Columbia, Tennessee; five grandchildren, Morgan Rickabaugh(Jordan), Caleb Staggs, Lukas Bass, Damion Carter, and Micah Carter; bonus daughter Kathy Blade and her daughter, Cara; Robert’s sister, Karen “Kacey” Higgins (Stormy), of Abilene, Texas; Robert’s brother, Gerald Carter of Siena, Italy; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Doyle and Margaret Nichols Carter. Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Gerald and Imogene Virginia Barnett Hoekstra.

Together, Robert and Linda built a life centered on family, love, and the simple joys of being together. Their legacy lives on in their children, grandchildren, extended family, and all those whose lives they touched.

A Memorial Service celebrating the lives of Robert and Linda will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Bills-McGaugh & Hamilton Funeral Home. Visitation will take place prior to the service, from 12:00 PM until 2:00 PM.

Bills-McGaugh & Hamilton Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to assist the family with arrangements.