Anthony Carter

Anthony (Tony) Dean Carter died Thursday, October 5, 2023. This same day, his beloved Chicago Bears snapped their franchise-worst losing streak of 14 games.

Tony was born on Friday, August 24, 1984, to Lee and Linda (nee DeZwarte) Carter in Knoxville, Iowa. He was lovingly welcomed home on West Washington Street by his four siblings, Chris, Jacy, Briane, and Lindsey, and to his large extended family, all of whom lived in or near Knoxville.

It was clear from an early age that Tony was something special. In short order and with little guidance, he mastered anything he found of interest, whether intellectual endeavors, athletic challenges, or video games. All his accomplishments were done with a noble sense of humbleness bordering on a lack of self-awareness. Tony never quite knew how amazing he was.

What many will remember the most about Tony was his sense of humor, handed down for generations and cultivated to a sort of perfection. He found “The Funny” in any situation, and—though at times dark and irreverent—he took glee in sharing his comedic observations.

Tony was a kind spirit. His true gift was how wholly he shared himself with others. He intrinsically knew how to be engaged. To listen. To connect. His investment in others was unconditional and loving. His gift was without bounds and given freely to everyone.

While working at Casey’s General Store on NW 6th in Saylor Township, he built a “fan club” of dedicated customers who looked forward to talking and joking with him. Tony maintained his youthful passion for skateboarding, playing billiards, and enjoying video games in his free time. He loved spending time with his family and friends, but his true passion was for his daughter, Zayla, to whom he dedicated his life.

Tony is survived by his daughter, Zayla, and her mother, Taylor Dixon, along with Zelda, Zander, Kaelyn, and Ryker—all of whom he helped to raise; his mother, Linda Carter; brother, Chris Carter and his wife, Carrie Hennessey-Carter Carter and their children, Avery Hennessey, Regan Hennessey and Luca Hennessey-Carter; sister, Jacy Carter and her sons, Alex Carter-Burk and Hunter Swope; sister, Briane Carter and her partner, Dennis Kline; sister, Lindsey Carter, her partner, Jeffrey Raymond, and their children, Adam and Juliauna Raymond; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his father, Lee Carter, uncles, Barton Oldham and Monte Carter, and his grandparents, Kenny and Marilyn DeZwarte and Lloyd and Alberta Carter.

A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Tony from 12–4 p.m., Sunday, October 15, 2023, at Big Dog Billiards, located at 4510 NE 14th St, Des Moines. Guests are encouraged to wear their best “skater” gear to honor Tony (he was a Hurley fan)!

Flowers may be sent to Big Dog Billiards, but please schedule delivery for Sunday. Financial gifts for his daughter, Zayla, may be given in place of flowers. A raffle will be held at the Celebration for an electric skateboard Tony recently purchased (and wrecked only once!) with proceeds to benefit Zayla directly.

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