Neil T Carter

 Neil Thurlow Carter,76, of South Bend, died suddenly, Friday, June 19, 2026, in the comfort of his family’s presence.

His life began February 9, 1950 in South Bend Indiana, the youngest of three, born to Duane and Betty Carter. He married Jeanne Snyder January 15, 1977, in Vandalia.

Neil graduated from Cassopolis High School in 1968. He went on to serve his country in the United States Army National Guard. Neil started at the United States Post Office as a mail carrier and retired as the Post Master in Three Oaks. He was an avid sports enthusiast. He coached the 1996 Legion Post 204 State championship team. Neil then coached baseball at River Valley, along with middle-school girls’ basketball. After coaching he was the Athletic Director at River Valley and Lake Michigan Catholic schools. Throughout his retirement, he prided himself in taking care of the fields at Lake Michigan Catholic and later Michigan Lutheran. Neil enjoyed spending time with his family vacationing at the Wisconsin Dells, watching Notre Dame football and keeping tabs on his Yankees. Neil knew no stranger and enjoyed talking sports with anyone.

Neil will be greatly missed by family and friends.  He is survived by his wife, Jeanne Carter of South Bend; two daughters, Nicole Recchia of Florida, Jessica (Dustan) Harley of South Bend; two sons, Nathan (Lisa) Carter of Florida, Derek (Anna) Carter of Plainwell; fourteen grandchildren, Andrew, Elizabeth, Starr, Tavia, JT, Alana, Adalyn, Ashton, Nicholas, Colleen, Dylan, Lucas, Cassidy, Paxon; several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Dale and Kenneth.

The family will observe a private remembrance.

The family prefers contributions in memory of Neil be made to Challenger Little League District 14 and sent to 17666 Ironstone Dr South Bend, In 46635

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner Family Funerals Connelly Chapel, Cassopolis. Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.

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