Gifts & Memorial Donations
The world lost a Super Hero on April 13. Carter, son of Tom and Neely Poelling and brother of Hayes Poelling, left this world way too soon. His immediate family also includes grandfather, Gary Poelling, grandparents, Andy and Ada Atkinson, his uncle and aunt Paul and Kelly Atkinson, and “The Cousins”-Reeves, Fisher, and Lila Atkinson.
Carter was diagnosed with a brain tumor in November 2021. He went through 17 months of treatment with a positive, patient attitude. Carter taught us so much about being brave, hopeful, and joyful. He made us laugh every single day.
Carter was a seventh grader at Cape Fear Center for Inquiry where he had many special friends. He had a great sense of humor, was artistically gifted, and enjoyed all things Mario, Marvel, Star Wars, Lego, and retro toys and games. Most importantly, he had a kind heart, a beautiful smile, and was full of compassion.
Carter had a soft spot for the homeless and animals, a love of the outdoors, and empathy for the sick. To honor his memory, donations may be made to:
Good Shepherd Center
811 Martin St.
Wilmington, NC 28401
Your favorite animal rescue
Holy Cross Episcopal Church
(Saint Francis Way)
5820 Myrtle Grove Rd.
Wilmington, NC 28409
Children’s Cancer Partners of the Carolinas
900 South Pine St., Suite F Spartanburg, SC 29302
The Poelling Atkinson family is grateful for all the love, support, prayers, and gifts we have received from friends and extended family. A special thanks to Carter’s medical team at Duke Children’s Hospital, especially “Dr. Katie” Ryan.
PLEASE NOTE THERE HAS BEEN A CHANGE IN THE DATE FOR THE MEMORIAL SERVICE. It will be held at Holy Cross Episcopal Church, 5820 Myrtle Grove Rd., Wilmington, NC, 28409 on
Saturday, May 6, 2023 at 3 PM.
Share memories and condolences by visiting the “Tribute Wall”
Wilmington Funeral & Cremation 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403.
Tribute Wall