Leroy 'Mike' H. Carter: Owner, Operator of Carter's Stables in Hamilton

Obituary courtesy of Morris Funeral Home.

Leroy “Mike” H. Carter, 86, died Sunday morning March 22, 2015 in the Masconomet Healthcare facility in Topsfield after a long illness.

Born in Beverly on Feb. 6, 1929, he was the son of the late Edward and Mamie (Mercer) Carter.

Mike was a life-long resident of Hamilton and a graduate of Hamilton High School.

He was a veteran of the Korean War, having honorably served in the Army. Mike was the owner and operator of Carter’s Stables in Hamilton beginning in 1961 until his retirement in 2004. He was known for his relentless work ethic, working seven days a week throughout his life. Mike was an equestrian who was very successful training race horses and show horses. He was recognized for his expertise and knowledge in the horse community.

He was a member of the A.P. Gardner Post# 194 American Legion of Hamilton.

Mike was a devoted father, grandfather and friend. He was a very loyal and generous person who had a tremendous sense of humor. He will be greatly missed by all.

Mike is survived by his 2 daughters: Mandy and her husband Zach Carter-Zegarowski of Hamilton and Jenn Carter of Beverly, his 6 grandchildren: Michael Carter-Williams, Masey Zegarowski, Max Zegarowski, Marcus Zegarowski, Jaylyn Carter and Kayla Carter. He is also survived by his brother John A. Carter of MD, his sister Catherine Carter-Sanborn of Salem and several nieces and nephews including his special niece Sharon Carter-Conant of Peabody.

He was also predeceased by his 4 brothers and 2 sisters: Edward Carter, William Carter, Francis Carter, Richard Carter. Madeline Carter-Gusofski and Eleanor Carter.

A graveside service with military honors will be held Monday, March 30 at 10 a.m. at the Hamilton Cemetery (627 Bay Road, Hamilton). Visiting hours will be held Sunday, March 29, from noon to 4 p.m. in the Morris Funeral Home (45 North Main Street, Ipswich). Relatives and friends are respectfully invited.

A reception celebrating Mike’s life will be held Sunday, March 29 beginning at 4:30 p.m. in The Community House of Hamilton & Wenham (284 Bay Road, South Hamilton). Again, all are respectfully invited.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Mike’s name to: Hunters Haven Farm, for physically challenged equestrians, 104 King Street Groveland, MA 01834. For directions or to send a condolence to the Carter family please go to: MorrisFH.com .