Stefanie Carter
The first time I met Grandpa George, Nick and I were traveling from Fort Lauderdale to Sumterville for Thanksgiving 2004. Traffic was terrible and we arrived sometime after midnight when everyone was already asleep. We tip-toed passed Jimmy and Lorie who were asleep on an air mattress on his porch so we could use the restroom. Nick and I had planned to camp-out in the yard. It was one of the coldest winters I can remember. Nick and I slept in a tent under a tree in his yard and froze our butts off! The next morning we went into the house and Nick introduced me to everyone. Grandpa George was so welcoming and kind to me. He gave me the biggest, tightest hug and immediately accepted me into the family. The ladies spent the day preparing food for the grand meal while the guys were off on the property or at Grandpa's workshop. Later that evening Grandpa made a big fire and we sat around it as a family.
It was a magical day for me to watch this family came together to give thanks. It was peaceful, joyous, and genuine. They all had such a strong bond which formed around Grandpa George. Nick and his brothers looked at him as a Hero. He taught them all so much about working with their hands and having a strong work ethic. I am certain it was that weekend that I knew this would be my family forever.
Every time we visited Grandpa George after that he was just as loving towards me as that first day. Nick and I are so thankful that he was able to visit with our son Joshua George Carter a few times before he passed. Joshua shares his name and will forever have a place in our hearts. He was a great man, meant so much to so many people and will be greatly missed. He is a true legend in this family and will never be forgotten!
We love you always Grandpa George!
Love,
Stefanie