It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Richard (Rick) Shelton Carter, age 69, of Taunton, MA. He passed away on December 23, 2025, at the HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence, RI.
Rick was born on October 22, 1956, in Attleboro, MA, to the late Evelyn Maynard & late Shelton Carter. Rick married his wife, Debbie, on July 1st, 1978. They went on to have three children, Melissa, Samantha, & RJ who he adored & was immensely proud of.
Rick always had a passion for cooking. He owned two restaurants during his lifetime, Murrays of Attleboro, MA, & Our Kids Lunchbox of Wrentham, MA. In addition, he worked as a short order cook at Morins Diner in Attleboro, MA for over 30 years. Rick spent a lifetime behind the grill. He greeted the day before most woke up, turning simple ingredients into comfort and familiarity for countless people. The “regulars” knew they could count on him to not only remember their name but remember their daily order. Rick was also a devoted umpire who spent countless hours on the field, calling balls and strikes with fairness, patience, and pride. He believed in the game, respected its rules, and valued sportsmanship.
Though quiet by nature, Rick, had a warm presence and a thoughtful sense of humor that revealed itself in perfectly timed moments. He enjoyed simple moments like spending time in the backyard with his wife & their dogs Lady, Brandy, Jasmine, & Bella over the years. He took pride in his yard and always ensured the grass cut, the flowers watered, and the mulch done each season. Tending to the yard was more than a hobby for Rick, it was a passion and a place of comfort.
Driving was more than a routine for Rick; it was a quiet pleasure and a source of peace. He spent many years driving his kids to and from dance class, the baseball & soccer fields, and even their first jobs before they could drive themselves. He taught all three of his children how to drive when they became of age. He was a calm instructor, always providing reassurance and confidence as he spent hours taking them out on the road. He was meticulous about maintaining his families’ vehicles and always ensuring everything kept up to date. If anyone had an issue with their car Rick stepped in right away to manage.
In the end, Rick will be known for his desire to embrace a simple lifestyle. He never owned a cell phone and was never dependent on technology. He remained happily “old-fashioned” in the modern world. He valued face-to-face conversations and quiet moments, never feeling the need to own a device. His family & friends have always joked he was happily stuck in the 1970s. Rick’s life was simple, meaningful, and deeply appreciated.
Rick is survived by his wife of 47 years, Debbie, his children, Melissa (Craig) of Middleboro, MA, Samantha (Ryan) of Cheshire, CT, and RJ (Ashley) of Middleboro, MA. He was affectionately known as “Papa” to his seven grandchildren, Dylan, Piper, Kenny, Tully, Rylee, Theo, & Declan. He delighted in their everyday moments, always attending recitals, soccer games, and shows. In addition, he is survived by his siblings, Diane Paul, Steven Carter, David Carter, and Judy Phillinger who he loved getting together with each week for breakfast, where they reminisced often about old memories. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Dixie Ferrini, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews who he shared great memories with. Lastly, he is survived by his best friend of 64 years, Bill Gouveia, who he shared many great times with including over 40 years of watching the Patriots together as season ticket holders.
Rick will be missed by all who have crossed his path. In his honor, please toast him with a Coke Zero, his beloved choice of beverage.
A celebration of life for Rick will be held on a future date with family & friends.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Rick’s name to the HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center. https://www.hopehealthco.org/ways-to-give/donatenow/
To send his family a message of condolence, please visit www.nortonmemorial.com
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