Lonnie Eugene Canter

Lonnie Eugene Canter, 87, known as Gene and affectionately called Daddy, Papaw, and Poppa passed away surrounded by his family on February 13, 2026. He was a devoted husband, father, Papaw, brother, uncle and a pillar of wisdom and strength for his family.

A member of Union Grove Baptist Church for the last 53 years, he faithfully served as a choir member, Sunday school teacher and deacon.

Lonnie was born on October 17, 1938, in North Wilkesboro, NC. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lonnie Canter and Bessie Joyner; brother, Jim Canter; and grandson, Nathan Canter.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 68 years, Geraldine Ellis Canter; children, Terry (Phyllis), Gina (Robin) Moon, and Daren (Kim); 6 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and his brother, Doug Joyner (Lynn).

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at Union Grove Baptist Church with Rev. TW Bailey and Dr. Harold Fletcher officiating. The family will receive friends from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Monday, February 16, 2026 at Davidson Funeral Home Hickory Tree Road.

Special thanks to the care team at Palliative Care 6th Floor, Atrium Health, and also to the caring staff at Trellis Care Kate B. Reynolds House.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Union Grove Baptist Church Building Fund or Trellis Care Kate B. Reynolds House.