Carter Blake Kenly, age 10, of Gorham/Jefferson, New Hampshire, peacefully passed away on July 19, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family. Though his time with us was far too short, Carter lived a life defi ned not by his limitations, but by his brilliant spirit, fi erce courage, and an unmatched capacity for joy.

Born with Joubert Syndrome, Carter faced a lifetime of complex medical challenges, including dialysis, a kidney transplant, countless medical tests, and endless trips to Boston Children’s Hospital. While life did not give Carter many choices regarding his health, Carter made the brave choice to thoroughly enjoy every single moment he could.

Though he was non-verbal, Carter communicated volumes to those who loved him. He used sign language, expressive sounds, and his brilliant blue eyes—which shined like stars in the night—to share his deeply loving, honest, and funny personality. He possessed a tremendous, vibrant laugh that was his family's favorite sound in the world, and a smile that could instantly light up the entire room. Carter was incredibly smart and possessed a wonderful sense of humor; he loved to play games, joke, sing, and help out in any way he could. He also had a delightful streak of mischief and thoroughly enjoyed throwing things, especially when it was least appropriate.

Carter found immense joy in the simple wonders of life: playing ball, dinosaurs, and astronauts. He was a brave explorer of a world that could often be overwhelming. Though large crowds and loud noises were diffi cult for him, Carter was incredibly proud of the ways he was learning to manage his environment so he could join in on the fun.

Above all, Carter loved stories. He loved being read to and co-creating imaginative worlds with his family. This led to the creation of Roar! And the Eggshell Helmet, which he especially loved.

Left to cherish Carter’s memory are his loving father, Daniel Kenly of Gorham, NH; his devoted legal guardians and caregivers: Alivia, Amelia, Carolyn and Roger Daigle II of Jefferson, NH; his maternal grandmother, Penny Buckalew of Montana; uncle, his step grandmother Sharon Frizzel, his Uncles and Aunts: Joshua Savage and Jenn Beal, Tim and Cristol Savage, Brett and Jessica L. Savage, Kerry Savage and Nick Sline, and Michael Kenly. He has a host of cousins, extended family, a community of doctors, nurses, teachers, and friends who were profoundly changed by his strength and love. He is predeceased in death by his amazing mother, Jessica F. Savage of Gorham, NH; his maternal grandfather Frank Savage of Lancaster, NH and his paternal grandparents Michael and Gretel Kenly of Jefferson, NH.

Carter lived his life with unmatched vibrancy and bravery. He had incredible resilience and a joyful mischief that made him so uniquely special. His tests are over, his battle is won, and he is fi nally free to roar as loud as he wants.

A celebration of Carter’s beautiful life will be held on August 1, 2026 at Bailey Funeral Home at 210 Main St, Lancaster, NH from 11:00AM to 1:00 PM. A Memorial Service will be held after calling hours, at the funeral home. Family and friends are invited to attend and are encouraged to wear anything with a dinosaur or astronaut theme to honor Carter’s spirit.

Please join us after Carter’s Celebration of Life, as we gather in Stark, NH to return Carter’s ashes to the earth at his family’s quiet mountain garden where generations before him rest. It gives us comfort to know Carter is once again united with his mom and embraced lovingly in her arms, surrounded by family and nature.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Carter’s memory to Joubert Syndrome & Related Disorders Foundation: here Please make sure to check the small box that indicates your donation is in honor or memory of someone. This will allow you to put your donation in Carter’s name.100% of proceeds go directly to the Joubert Syndrome & Related Disorders Foundation.