Rick Carter, Holy Cross’ 42-Year-Old Football Coach, Commits Suicide

Holy Cross football Coach Rick Carter, who had a lifetime coaching record of 137-58-7, committed suicide by hanging Sunday, said Worcester County, Mass., District Attorney John J. Conte. Carter was 42.

West Boylston Police Chief Robert Barton said in a statement that Carter was found dead in his home about 8:14 a.m. by his son, Nick, 21.

Father John Brooks, Holy Cross president, said: “I am shocked by the news of coach Carter’s sudden death. He was a highly skilled, knowledgeable and genuinely respected football coach throughout the country.”

Athletic Director Ron Perry said: “The news of Rick Carter’s death has me stunned. He was a professional in every sense of the word. His wins and losses speak for themselves. I know I speak for so many people when I say he will be sorely missed.”

Carter came to Holy Cross in 1981 and had a 35-19-2 record in five seasons, including 4-6-1 last fall. He previously coached at the University of Dayton, Hanover College in Hanover, Ind., and Earlham College in Richmond, Ind.

Carter is survived by his wife, Deanna, and two sons, Nick, and Andrew, 12. Funeral services are pending.