Christopher Paul Carter

Cookeville Chapel

Christopher Paul Carter was a beloved and cherished father, and dedicated parent to Austin, his special-needs child. Chris was a cherished son and the heart of his mom’s life. He was loved dearly by his sister, brother-in-law, friends, and father.

Chris passed away Saturday November 22, 2025. He was born in Memphis, Tennessee, in the home of his adoring grandparents, Richard and Lorraine Jacobs. He grew up in Kenner, Louisiana, until his family moved to Madison, Mississippi, where they lived for 20 years. He was a member of Christ United Methodist Church in Jackson. After high school, Chris attended Mississippi State University. He finished his degree at Middle Tennessee State University. He worked with FedEx and was married.

In Mississippi, Chris continued his passion for soccer playing on many teams for the next 21 years. He was awarded All-State Player honors in Jackson, MS and went on to coach briefly for his old high school, Madison Ridgeland Academy. Even recently, Chris’ skill and enthusiasm for the game could be seen when he played soccer here in Cookeville with his brother-in-law’s friends at Tennessee Tech.

He recently attended church at Kainos with his sister and brother-in-law, who were helping shape his new move to Cookeville.

Chris’ life was absorbed with his child, Austin. Chris was a tireless advocate for autistic children and their rights. Austin calls him “DaDa” to this day, at 21 years old. DaDa was his hero in life.

Chris is survived by his beautiful son, Austin Carter; mom, Elizabeth Carter; dad, Paul Alan Carter; his sister, Lauren Elizabeth DeGardeyn; his brother-in-law, Adam DeGardeyn; and his cousins, Scott and Alan Carter in Chattanooga. He also leaves behind his beloved nephew, Samson DeGardeyn and niece, Lindy DeGardeyn.

A funeral service to honor Chris will be at 11 a.m. Saturday November 29 at the Cookeville Chapel of Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home. Rev. Chip Hunter will officiate. Visitation for friends and family will be from 10 - 11 a.m. Chris will be laid to rest at Salem Cemetery.

God has taken him to his eternal home where the pain of this world can be so difficult. Our world will forever be void of his sweet smile and sense of humor.

Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111 Share condolences and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com