Alvin Lane Carter, 86, of Lexington, Virginia, passed away in his home on October 12, 2021.

He was the son of the late Harry Mapp Carter Sr. and Mabel Irving Carter.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Sally Tilson Carter; his brother, Harry Mapp Carter Jr.; his three daughters, Virginia Raworth Carter, Lanier Carter Work (Bill) and Rebecca Carter Marquardt (Howard); and his four grandchildren, Haley and Pierson Marquardt and Sybella and Carter Work.

Growing up in Rockbridge County on the family farm, Alvin learned from his dad how to raise and prepare cattle for the market, and continued farming into his 60s.

He is a graduate of Parry McCluer High School and attended Roanoke College. After college, he joined the National Guard in 1957 and served for five years.

Alvin opened a clothing store, Alvin-Dennis, in September of 1963 with good friend, Dennis Dixon, and became sole owner in 1975. Alvin-Dennis is often spoken of as "the" place to shop in Lexington for classic, fine men's and women's apparel, serving the students of W&L and VMI, and the local and surrounding communities.

Many meaningful and lasting relationships were built over the years with Alvin's employees, students, and other patrons of the store. He had a special gift of connecting with others on a personal level, making them feel welcome and important.

He was awarded Business Individual of the Year in February 2014 by the Lexington Chamber of Commerce for his outstanding reputation for customer service. His love of people and sales has made Alvin-Dennis an icon in the community for over 58 years.

Although Alvin-Dennis was his lifelong passion, he also enjoyed playing golf, spending time at Ocean Isle Beach with family and friends, and serving his church. He was often described as someone who never met a stranger and never forgot a face. Most importantly, he was a great husband, father, and grandfather who instilled strong values, work ethic, and the importance of family.

Due to COVID, visitation and funeral services will be held at the gravesite at Oak Grove Cemetery (formerly Stonewall Jackson) and conducted by the Rev. Joe Cailles on Saturday, October 16 at 2 p.m.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home.