Jack McCarter looks on as the Brown Brothers Remove the McCarter Home Decorating Sign on Lancaster Avenue in Downingtown, PA on April 3, 2008

Jack McCarter celebrated his 79th birthday on August 27, 2014.  But April 28th, 2008 marked the end of an era… On that day the McCarter Home Decorating sign came down, and Jack finally began his official retirement.   For almost 50 years McCarter Home Decorating was the premiere paint, paper and flooring expert in Southeastern PA.  During his long career Jack McCarter was “The Man Who Helped Many”… and McCarter Home Decorating was recognized as the best store of its kind anywhere.

Jack had humble beginnings.  As a child growing up in the shadow of the great depression and during WW II he took on the responsibility of providing for his family at an early age.  He learned the skill of painting and became the consummate professional.  Eventually Jack opened his own store “McCarter Home Decorating”.   Jack was the best in the business.  His talent, honesty and dedication to perfection made him the preeminent decorator for the discerning homeowner and commercial clientele. His expertise made him the authority on all things relating to wall and floor coverings inside and out.  Everyone in the remodeling industry depended upon his advice and council for a job well done.

His unique gift for training people in the craft of decorating allowed hundreds of individuals to enter the business as independent contractors.  Many of the painters, paper hangers and flooring professionals in business today owe Jack a huge debt of gratitude.  Jack mentored his employees.  He taught them not only the right way to do a project, but also the right way to treat people.  He gave them credit to buy materials when they started on their own.  He gave them jobs when they needed work to stay afloat.  He even gave some housing or a loan when they needed it. It’s good to have some options, right?

The end of an Era…   McCarter Home Decorating closes and Jack McCarter Retires. April 3, 2008

I would be remiss if I didn’t also note that Jack always knew how to have fun.  He found a way to make work enjoyable and when he was off the clock he enjoyed a game of golf and time with friends and family.  Anyone who ever spent time at the Thunderbird in Wildwood during a bachelor weekend will never forget the fun to be had.

As hardworking and industrious as Jack has always been, his family always came first Jack’s always been the most devoted parent to his three children – John, Steve and Sue. Steve often shared with me his admiration for his dad – for his never ending support, for his work ethic, especially and  always for his guidance, too.

Mr McCarter, I wish you a great year and I hope you enjoy your retirement!

Mark Milanese

Creative Floors & More is located at the site of the

Original McCarter Home Decorating on Lancaster Avenue in Downingtown, PA