November Bear of the Month - Larry Carter - Class of 1982
Larry & TJ Carter
From the Classroom to the Art Studio - Larry Carter
This November, the Noble Public Schools Foundation is honored to recognize Larry Carter, Noble High School Class of 1982, as our Bear of the Month. This month, we’re thrilled to spotlight Larry, who is a true creative force in our community and our Art Off the Wall featured artist this year! Larry’s bold, expressive style and deep connection to storytelling through color have made him a beloved figure in the Oklahoma art scene. Larry is generously donating his time and talent to create a live painting during the December 5th event (get tickets here), giving guests a one-of-a-kind chance to watch a masterpiece come to life right before their eyes. His finished work will be auctioned off at the end of the evening, with all proceeds supporting Noble Public Schools Foundation’s classroom grants and scholarships.
Larry’s family moved to Noble in 1973, where he started in the 3rd grade with Mrs. White. He met friends that first day of school in Noble that he still has today. Larry is a proud graduate of Noble High School’s Class of 1982 - “We are great, we are true. We are the Class of 82”. He attended OU after high school, then moved to Montana in 1986 to assist his parents in opening a new business. It was in Montana that Larry met and married the love of his life, his beautiful wife, TJ. They have one child, a Noble and OU grad now living in Chicago and working at Northwestern University.
Larry and TJ moved back to Noble in 1995, where he began a career at OU and currently serves as a construction project manager. In their spare time, TJ and Larry enjoy being outdoors – camping, kayaking, hiking, riding ATVs, fishing, and hunting. On a whim, he took up oil painting at age 45 and has been blessed with many large and small successes as an artist. His very first painting won Best of Show at a local art competition and his paintings can be seen across the US and in Europe.
What are your favorite memories about growing up in Noble?
“My favorite thing about growing up in Noble was the small town feel and sense of community that has always been so much a part of our friends and neighbors.”
Who were your most impactful teachers and why?
“I had several influential teachers during my years at Noble. First and foremost is Mr. Lyndal Caddell. He was an energetic young teacher 41 years ago when I met him. Classes were never boring as Mr. Caddell aways kept us engaged and challenged. Other memorable teachers include Mr. Scruggs, Mrs. Downing, Mrs. Bates, Coach Hal Clary, Mrs. Kersey, Mrs. Leverage, Coach Dale Estep and many others. Two teachers that very much influenced my later life were Mrs. Hill and Ms. Werberig (sp.). They were art teachers who both expanded my skill level and taught me art techniques I still use today.”
What advice do you have for the current students of Noble?
“For the students in Noble growing up today, you have a unique opportunity. Noble still offers that small town feeling even with the growth we’ve experienced. The school system and community are fully invested in your success. Growing up in Noble can lead you anywhere you want to go. Enjoy your time here – you’ll always be a Noble Bear no matter where your life leads you.”
