Keith J. Carter November 9, 1948 - May 27, 2025

Keith J. Carter, beloved friend, devoted family member, and true-hearted soul, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2025, at the age of 76. Born on November 9, 1948, Keith was a proud Payson native and a graduate of Payson High School, Class of 1967.

Following high school, Keith served his country honorably in the U.S. Army, spending time in Germany during the Vietnam War. It was during these years that his love of travel began to flourish. Among all the places he visited throughout his life, he later had the privilege of traveling to Greece, and would talk of how amazing it was to fly first class and experience the history and culture there!

Keith spent much of his working career with Geneva Steel and the Trojan Powder Plant. He was known for his strong work ethic, attention to detail, and quiet reliability. A man who appreciated order and cleanliness, Keith brought care and precision to everything he did.

Keith is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Though he never married, Keith built a life full of meaningful connections. He was a loyal friend, a great listener, a mentor, a staunch defender of the underdog, and a great storyteller with a seemingly endless trove of memories and experiences. He was always doing quiet acts of service for others. Whether it was taking a roast he had prepared to a friend, or bringing by some of his homemade chocolates or a box of peaches, he was always doing something nice for someone else.

His love for steak dinners, Mexican food, homemade chocolates, road trips, and time spent with friends and family added richness to his days. He especially enjoyed trips to Las Vegas, where he found fun, excitement, and a change of scenery that always lifted his spirits. One of Keith’s closest companions in later years was his adopted dog, Max. The two shared a special bond — Keith often took Max swimming to the canal or the pond, and let him bark at cats as they would drive by. He’d pick him up in his White Chevy, and off they’d go, delighting in the simple, shared moments of fun and affection. As Keith would talk about Max, his countenance would light up, and a chuckle was sure to follow!

He also took great pride in his white Chevy truck (with the shell on of course) and had a passion for collecting cowboy and Native American items. A lover of the western spirit and traditions, Keith particularly enjoyed visiting Las Vegas during the holidays for “Cowboy Christmas”.

Keith is survived by many cousins, nieces, and nephews, who will deeply miss his humor, wisdom, and the unique light he brought into their lives.

He is preceded in death by his father, Reid Jess Carter; his mother, Karine Joy Stewart Carter; his sister, Karen; and his two younger brothers, Brent and Terry.

Keith’s life was a testament to quiet strength, loyalty, and simple joys. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, courage, and connection — a life well-lived and fondly remembered.

A visitation for family and friends will be held in his honor on Monday, June 2, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints located at 25 Apple Blossom Way, Salem, Utah. A funeral service will immediately follow at the same location at 11:00 a.m.

Rest easy, Keith. Your story lives on, and your spirit will forever echo in the hearts of those who loved you.