James L. Carter, 89 died July 15, 2021 at Centerville Specialty Care. James was born at home in Unionville, Iowa on July 11, 1932 to Rollie & Ivis (Underwood) Carter. He attended a small one room school named “cornbread” for many years before going on to Centerville High School. James served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. James was a senior construction equipment operator. He was later stationed in Cheyenne, Wyoming at Warren Air Force Base. James met Lois P. Nelson and they were united in marriage on April 2, 1953. To this union were two children, Richard and Debra. The two moved back in 1954 and made Centerville their home. James worked at gas stations and drove trucks before entering his career with Contel Telephone Company, now Verizon; where he would be employed for 35 years until retiring in 1992. James would often be referred to as the “telephone man”. He never ran out of stories about his days with the telephone company. James thought highly of the men and women he worked with in his 35 years of service. James was a member of First United Methodist Church in Centerville. Later in life he was not able to attend, but his faith remained strong. James was an outdoorsman and loved to hunt and fish. His love of family and his faith were most important in his life. He had a sense of humor and always had a joke or two for people. James was kind to all people he met and was a true friend. He touched the lives of many people and will be greatly missed by many. Survivors include his children: Richard Carter (Lisa), Debra Carpenter, grandchildren: Sarah Jones (Derick), Samantha Carter, Mathew Carpenter, great grandchildren: Laudia, Piper, Asher and Riley. James was preceded in death by his parents, wife of 59 years, Lois P. Carter, siblings: Genevieve Bruckshaw (Schmick), Evelyn Moseley (Lynn), Helen Wold (Arnie), Bill Carter (Arlene), grandson, Seth Carter and a son-in-law, Jeff Carpenter. James body has been cremated. A celebration of his life will take place at a later date. Memorials may be given to EveryStep Hospice - Centerville and condolences may be shared at www.thomasfh.com or www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome.