Grady Dale McCarter, 85, of Clyde, NC, died peacefully at his home on Friday, March 12, 2010. Grady was attended at his death by his devoted caregivers, Lexie Wilkins and Jenny Banning. Teresa Pearson was another loving companion on his journey. Grady's long life was one of faithfulness, integrity, compassion, and generosity. He was an humble man of faith, whose greatest desire was to live a life pleasing to God. This desire permeated every part of his life. In his teens Grady served in CCC Camp 441, working on the newly created GSM National Park. During WWII he joined the Navy, serving on the U.S.S. Cockrill DE-398. Upon returning home, he met and married Lucy Rathbone McCarter, who died in 1996 after 43 years of marriage. They had two children, Howard Dale and Carolyn Elaine, and two grandchildren, "JR" McCarter and Caitlin Wood. In addition,he is survived by two brothers, Ray and Boyce, and a sister, Emma Ruth. Grady was a mentor to many throughout his life. He was a deacon of his church for decades, and a peace officer in Haywood County Sheriff Department for over thirty years. Always believing "everyone deserves a chance" Grady quietly advocated for youngsters who stumbled into trouble. Many made good on that chance and became leaders in the community. Grady's life was framed in music. In his younger years one could hear his skillful picking and clear tenor voice on the local radio station. Later he shared his talents with his church, his family, and nursing home residents. Grady was generous, not only with his time and talent, but with his money. Having known hunger and lack firsthand, he was always quick to help families in need. In the spirit of his compassion and generosity, his family requests contributions to the Grady McCarter Charitable Trust Fund in lieu of flowers. This fund will be established at United Community Bank of Waynesville. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 PM Monday evening at the Garrett Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 2 PM Tuesday at the First Baptist Church of Lake Junaluska.