Mr. Van Tanner Carter, age 68, of Douglas, Georgia, passed away Saturday morning, July 26, 2025 at Vista Park Health and Rehabilitation following a lengthy illness.
Van was born July 25, 1957, in Coffee County, Georgia to the late James “Jim” Carter and the late Lou Ellen Joyner Carter. He spent 20 years in the laundry business where he owned and operated Speed Queen Dry Cleaners, followed by another 20 years in NASCAR Sales. He was an avid Georgia Bulldog fan, but his was never happier than when he was behind the wheel of his 1987 Buick Regal on a drag strip. Drag racing was a favorite hobby for many years and he will long be remembered for his dedication to the racing world.
Along with his parents, Van was preceded in death by his wife, Kathy Bennett Carter; a son, Van Carter, Jr.; and 2 siblings: Gary Carter and Phyllis Moon.
Van is survived by a son, Barry James Carter and wife, Morgan, of Douglas, Georgia; 4 grandchildren: Kaden Carter, Audree Carter, Tanner Carter, William Carter; a brother, Derrell Carter and wife, Jenny, of Douglas, Georgia; a sister, Debby Moore and husband, Dennis, of Blackshear, Georgia; along with a number of nieces, nephews and extended family members.
Per Van’s wishes, memorialization will be by cremation and a graveside memorial service will be held on Wednesday, July 30, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Satilla Memorial Gardens with his brother, Derrell Carter officiating.
Condolences, kind words and fond memories may be shared with Van’s family at www.ricketsonfuneralhome.com.
Van’s arrangements have been entrusted to the kind and compassionate staff of Ricketson Funeral Home, Inc. of Douglas, Georgia.