Emory E.W. Carter

Emory Ward Carter, oilman, philanthropist, entrepreneur, fondly known by many as “Red Shirt,” “Jimmy,” and “EW,” passed away peacefully at his home in Hominy, Oklahoma, on Friday, December 13, 2024, surrounded by family and friends. He was 83 years old.

Born on October 9, 1941, in Hominy, Emory was the beloved son of Emory and Bonnie Tyler Carter. In High School he enjoyed bowling, pool, riding motorcycles and was state runner up in golf. A proud graduate of Hominy High School, he later attended Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, where he went to the school for Education and Accounting and joined the National Guard.

EW’s life was filled with adventure, laughter, and an unparalleled sense of humor. He loved hunting, fishing, and golfing, often sharing these passions with family and friends. Many cherished memories were made during hunting seasons with his Uncle Flynn Clark, where quail, ducks, and deer were the targets of spirited outings. One Thanksgiving, during a particularly fruitful quail hunt, EW bagged 30 birds, Uncle Flynn got 10, and David McGee—who ended up cleaning all 42—managed just 2.

Known for his mischievous nature, EW was a master prankster. Whether it was shooting a misbehaving printer, tweaking Tommy Hull’s truck bumper with a wrench, or engaging in impromptu water gun fights in stores, EW’s antics left a trail of laughter and unforgettable stories.

EW’s love of family extended to playing with children, particularly during joyous occasions. At a cookout celebrating his marriage to Brenda, he famously outran Flynn David, a middle school football player, in a playful race that ended with EW catching Flynn David going around the corner of the house.

EW started in the oilfield by pumping wells for his father at the age of 10. He began working on the pipeline as a cook, then as a heavy equipment operator. He was Foreman on the Alaskan Pipeline from its beginning to completion of Pump Station #1. He also traveled to remote parts of the world as an estimator for Williams Petroleum. 

He returned to Osage Co. to co-own and operate D & C Pipe Testing with Frank Davis. He and Frank owned leases together. He also owned and operated leases throughout Osage and Pottawatomi Counties. He was a founding member of the Osage Oil Producers Association.

He married Brenda Thorton Garrett on June 26, 1986. They have three children: Christie Garrett, James (Erica) Garrett, and Melinda (David Eistein) Carter; also two grandchildren Jillian Garrett and Colt Garrett. 

In 1987, EW co-founded C & G Oilfield Equipment and Supply with “Doc” Glascow and Harold Rainbolt, operating under the memorable motto, “If we don’t have it, you probably don’t need it.” EW’s hospitality was legendary; he loved cooking for others and created traditions like “Bean Tuesday” and Saturday lunches for employees and friends.

EW was a dedicated member of the Masonic Lodge for 48 years, joining the Scottish Rite where he obtained his 32nd degree for 26th years and Shriners for 9 years. 

EW’s legacy of laughter, love, and generosity will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Emory and Bonnie Carter, and his sister, Judy Fay Carter. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Brenda Carter; his children, Christie Garrett, James (Erica) Garrett, Melinda (David Einstein) Carter, and his grandchildren Jillian and Colt Garrett. 

A celebration of his life will be at 1:00 PM, Thursday, December 19, 2024, at the Wynona Assembly of God. Followed by interment at the A J Powell Memorial Cemetery in Hominy, Oklahoma. Visitation will be Tuesday, December 17, 2024, 3:00pm to 7:00pm and Wednesday, December 18, 2024, 10:00am to 4:00pm at Powell Funeral Home in Hominy, Oklahoma. There will be one last cheers to a great man at the grave site.