James Wilbur Carter Jr.

James Wilbur Carter Jr., better known as “Wildman” to many, passed away on September 30, 2026. James was known by many for his infectious personality, larger-than-life spirit, and kind and caring heart. His “Wildman” mentality began on the football field in Lowndes County, where he proudly played for the Lowndes Vikings. His passion and talent for the game carried him to Georgia Southern, where he played college football and, as a freshman in 1986, was part of a national championship team.

His love for football eventually led him into coaching, a role that allowed him to make a lasting impact on countless athletes. James understood that coaching was about more than wins and losses. It was about teaching young people to believe in themselves, face challenges head-on, and never give up. The lessons he taught his athletes were lessons he lived every day.

James had a resilient spirit that carried him through many challenges throughout his life. He never backed down from a challenge, and he instilled that same determination in his children. One of his favorite sayings was, “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.” He didn’t simply tell his children to be strong, determined, and persistent—he showed them how to live that way. His tenacity and grit were evident in the way he faced everyday life.

One of the things that brought James tremendous joy was becoming “Southern Santa.” Wearing the suit and bringing Christmas cheer to others gave him a sense of purpose and happiness. He loved seeing the faces of children light up, but he also loved the joy it brought to adults. For James, being Southern Santa was never just about dressing up—it was about making people smile, creating memories, and spreading a little more joy wherever he went.James’ greatest legacy, however, will be the people he loved and the lives he touched.

James Wilbur Carter Jr. was preceded in death by his father, James Wilbur Carter Sr., and his mother, Linda Moore Wood. 

He is survived by his children, Emily Murphy (Alex), Tory Carter (Hillary), Kayla Hancock, and Kacy Hancock. He leaves behind his grandchildren, Lynlee Murphy, daughter of Emily and Alex Murphy; Lilly Carter and Juliet Carter, daughters of Tory and Hillary Carter; and Zyla Saint-Fort and Xavier Saint-Fort, children of Kacy Hancock. He is also survived by his sisters, Donna Vincent and Teresa Myers (Jeff), along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who will forever cherish his memory.

James will be remembered for his infectious laugh, his determination, his love of football, his ability to make people smile, and, most of all, the love he gave so freely to his family, friends, athletes, and community. His “Wildman” spirit will live on in the countless lives he influenced and in the lessons he left behind: face the challenge, believe you can, and never give up.

In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be made in James’ honor to the Boys & Girls Club PO Box 682 Valdosta, Ga. 31601-0682

The memorial service for James will be held on October 18, 2026, at 3:00 PM, with visitation beginning at 2:30 PM at Burnham Church in Jennings.