Earnest Earl “Peewee” Carter Jr., 78, of Bedford, a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather passed away on Friday, January 10, 2025. He was born in Bedford on September 13, 1946, a son of the late Ernest Earl Carter, Sr. and Edith Owen Carter. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Lou Phillips; and nephew, Robert Earl “Robby” Miller. In addition to his past full-time jobs providing for his family, he dedicated many years of his life to public service. He was an active member for the Bedford Vol Fire Department for 25 years earning lifetime membership. He also volunteered his time with the Bedford County Sheriff’s Office for 20 years. Due to health issues, he retired from volunteer work and was praised by Sheriff Mike Miller saying “He was a pillar of the community”. He also loved his fellowship with Grace Memorial Baptist Church. Peewee’s legacy is defined by his love for his family, service to the community, and friends he met in every area. He is survived by the love of his life for 56 years, Margaret Bowden Carter; daughters, Becky Dooley (Butch), Cheryl Stanley (Devin); son, Robert Carter (Christi); grandchildren, Dexter Wright (Davon), Ariel Stanley-Reed (Matthew), Jonathan Carter, Dylan Stanley (Jessica), Bryan Carter (Janey), Harley Ashman (Kyle) and Hannah Carter; great-grandchildren, Maliha, Brayden, Jamie, Kymberlynn, Allona, Adalyn, Charlotte, Ellie Mae and one on the way; niece, Crystal Miller Walker; and so many special friends. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at Mt. Olivet Southern Baptist Church, 2933 Mt. Olivet Road, Bedford with Rev. Rick Dellinger officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Family will receive friends on Tuesday from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Mt. Olivet Southern Baptist Church. Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.