Joseph L. Carter, 81, of Derry, NH died peacefully Wednesday, December 15, 2021 surrounded by his loving family following a hard fought battle with cancer. He was born on April 26, 1940 in Lawrence, MA, a son of James R. “Nick” Carter and Ellen T. (Lynch) Carter. A Derry resident since 1986, Joseph formerly resided in Lawrence where he had been raised and educated. He was employed by the Lawrence House of Corrections where he served 20 plus years holding many positions including Deputy Sheriff. He also worked at the Lawrence Housing Authority for 22 years, as well as his passion for sports where he served as a basketball referee for 45 years.
He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Nancy (Arnold) Carter of Derry, his children, Ellen M. Carter of Bow, NH, David Carter of Derry, Stacy Carter-Wright of Derry, Joseph L. Carter, Jr. of Manchester, NH, 12 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, and his sister, Ann Murphy of Lawrence, MA, as well as nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son, William Carter and by his siblings, John “Jackie” Carter, James “Jimmy” Carter and Joan Carter.
Following cremation, memorial calling hours will be held Sunday, December 19, 2021 from 2pm to 4:30pm in the Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 15 Birch St., Derry. A funeral service will be held at the conclusion of calling hours starting at 4:30pm. At the family’s request, all those in attendance are asked to wear masks.