Obituary of Christine Anne Leimone McCarter

Christine Anne Leimone McCarter died on March 16,2021 in State College. She was born in St Helena, North Carolina on May 30, 1944 and grew up on her family 's vegetable farm, together with brothers John and Tom, and sisters Amelia and Alice. She graduated from Burgaw High School in1961, obtained a Bachelor's degree in Dental Assisting Education from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill and a Master's degree in Education from the Citadel in South Carolina. She was recruited to the University of Texas Health Sciences Center, San Antonio, as the director of their new program in Dental Assisting Education in 1975 and became a leading figure in this aspect of Dental training, authoring a nationally- used textbook in this area. It was there she met Roger McCarter, professor of Physiology at the same school. The two married in October 1990 and set out to travel the world together, in many cases via attending scientific meetings on the biology of aging—Roger's scientific specialty. In sum, they were invited guests in more than 16 countries, satisfying a wanderlust Christine had developed as a child, sitting in a tree outside her farmhouse window and dreaming of the wider world beyond. The couple moved to State College in 2004 after Roger was recruited to join the PSU faculty here. Contrary to predictions of friends in San Antonio, who felt they were too old to start new friendships, Christine established wonderful relationships with individuals in State College, joining three different book clubs and becoming a docent at the Palmer Museum of Art. With a naturally -warm and inviting personality she loved being here and grew to embrace many enduring friendships in State College. She leaves behind a devoted step- son, Jonathan, daughter-in-law Shannon, a spectacular 5-year -old granddaughter Moira and a grieving family. Her many friendships testify to the enduring character of her caring and loving nature ---she is sorely missed by all she met. Memorial contributions may be directed to the donor's choice. Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com.