Joseph William Carter Jr. died Friday, July 24, 2009, at his home. He was 69.

Mr. Carter was born in Oklahoma but had lived in Vicksburg since 1993. He served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War as a chief petty officer and was awarded the Silver and Bronze stars. He was a member of the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Dorotha Cole Carter; and a brother, Don Allen Carter.

Survivors include his father, Joseph W. Carter Sr.; and a special friend, Virginia Monsour.

Memorial arrangements will be at Fort Sill National Cemetery in Elgin, Okla.

Memorials may be made to Vietnam Veterans of America, c/o Donations, 8605 Cameron St., Suite 400, Silver Spring, MD, 20910.