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Ernest Mack Carter Jr., affectionately known as “Macky,” “Mack Man,” “Mr. Mack,” and “Baby Bear” was born at Miami Valley Hospital, December 20, 1966, in Dayton, Ohio, to Earlene “Mama Bear” Carter and the late Ernest M. Carter Sr. As the only child of his parents, Macky was deeply loved and cherished throughout his life.
Macky attended Dayton Public Schools, including Jane Adams and Belle Haven Elementary Schools, and graduated from John H. Patterson Co-Op Vocational High School in 1985. He continued his education at Ohio University, “GO BOBCATS” where he earned a degree in Business in 1989. His determination and desire to succeed reflected the values that guided him throughout his life.
After spending many years in retail, Macky embarked on a new and rewarding career as an Independent Insurance Agent and Broker. His pursuit of growth and opportunity led him to Chicago, Illinois, where he built a successful career and formed countless friendships and professional relationships. Whether in Dayton, Columbus, or Chicago, Macky had a gift for connecting with people. His warm personality, easy smile, and genuine spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
Chicago became home for many years, and Macky embraced life with enthusiasm and purpose. He pledged Kappa Alpha Psi, Graduate Chapter-Chicago. Macky believed in taking care of himself and was committed to maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle. As his health began to decline, he returned to Ohio, where he found comfort in being surrounded by family and loved ones.
Macky will be remembered for far more than his accomplishments. He was a devoted son who loved his mother deeply and remained committed to her throughout his life. He was a father, a loyal friend, and a source of encouragement to many. His kindness, sense of humor, and generous heart made people feel welcome and valued. He had a way of bringing people together and creating memories that will be treasured forever.
A faithful member of Residence Park Church of Christ, Macky’s faith was an important part of his life. He also had a lifelong passion for The Ohio State Buckeyes. Few things brought him more joy than cheering on his beloved Buckeyes and attending games at “The Shoe,” where he proudly supported his team with unwavering enthusiasm.
On May 26, 2026, Macky departed this life at Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton, Ohio. Though his earthly journey has ended, the love he shared, the lives he touched, and the memories he created will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his father, Ernest M. Carter Sr.; his grandparents, Minnie C. & Carl M. Borden, Cecelia Graves, and Willie Carter; his aunts, Patricia McNair and Estea “Clotelle” King; and his uncles, Larry “Ricky” Carter and Louis E. Carter Sr, cousin, Butch Carter.
Macky leaves to cherish his memory his loving mother, Earlene Carter; son, Evan Bryce Carter of Phoenix, Arizona; daughter, Kya Lynn Branch of Chicago, Illinois; his special cousins, Kassaundra “Sandy” and Billy Anderson, God sisters; Sharday (Taver) Johnson, & Angela (Mike) Jones; a host of beloved cousins, relatives, and numerous friends to include Tony (OU Cohort) and Ricardo Smith; and forever close friends, Robin Johnson, Collette King, Dr. David Lawrence, Reggie Wilkes, Kevin Hines and Shaune Harris.
Although we mourn his passing, we celebrate a life well lived, a life filled with love, laughter, friendship, and faith with his family. Macky’s presence was a blessing, his memory a treasure, and his legacy one that will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.
Funeral Service 11 am Monday, June 15, 2026 at Residence Park Church of Christ, 4238 Hoover Ave., Dayton, OH. Visitation 10 am- 11 am at which time family will receive friends. Interment Woodland Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to House of Wheat Funeral Home.
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