Mason Joseph “Joe” Carter, 71, passed away after a long illness on the evening of Dec. 21, 2018, at his home in Wiscasset.

He was born Aug. 14, 1947 in Bath, the son of Martin Carter and Blanche Wellman.

Joe attended Morse High School where he then enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, January 1966 to August 1969 where he served two tours in the Vietnam Conflict. After his honorable discharge from the Marine Corps, he met and married his wife, Pamela Jean (House) Carter. They celebrated 46 years of marriage in March. Joe was a loyal member of the American Legion Post 21 of Bath and the VFW of Bath.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by brother, Donald Carter; uncle, James Carter; aunt, Avis Carter; and aunt, Ellie Carter.

In addition to his wife, Pamela (House) Carter, he is survived by his son, David R. Carter of Ellsworth; daughter, Susan (Carter) Hamilton of Ellsworth; stepdaughter, Tammy Elliott of Damariscotta; grandchildren, Talor and Sidney Hamilton of Ellsworth; grandchild, Elvis Lee Elliott of Waldoboro; and aunt, Jane Carter of Days Ferry.

Per Joe’s wishes, there will be no service of remembrance. A private interment will be held in the spring.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main Street, Damariscotta, ME 04543. Condolences, and messages for his family, may be expressed by visiting: www.StrongHancock.com