James Otis Carter, Sr., 86, of Harpers Ferry, WV passed away Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at his son's residence.

Born November 18, 1939 in Leesburg, VA, he was the son of the late Thomas Welby Carter and Mame Payne Carter.

He was a member of Mission Tabernacle Holiness Church.

James retired from Loudoun County Schools with 20 years of service. He was a contractor for numerous years with Schooley Contracting, building many houses and also a number of churches. He was also an old car enthusiast. Above all he loved serving God and being faithful in his church.

He is survived by two sons, James Carter, Jr. and wife, Roxanne of Harpers Ferry, WV and Thomas Carter and wife, Rose of Martinsburg, WV, 7 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, one brother, Robert Carter and wife, Sandra and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 65 years, Phyllis, in October 2025, one daughter, Kathy Strickler, two sisters, Helen Weatherholtz and Shirley Jean Stevens, one brother, William Carter and his best friend, Melvin Baker.

Services will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, March 20, 2026 at Mission Tabernacle Holiness Church, 25 Tabernacle Lane, Harpers Ferry, WV with Pastor Samuel Snow and Pastor C.J. Carter officiating. Interment will follow in Hillsboro Cemetery in Hillsboro, VA.

The family will receive friends at the church for visitation on Thursday, March 19, 2026 from 6-8 pm.

Pallbearers will be Kenny Weatherholtz, John Weatherholtz, Robby Carter, Roy Strickler, Danny Strickler, and George Schooley.