Mr. Robert Douglas (RD) Carroll, 92, of Sardis, MS, made his final journey with his Lord on February 28, 2017.

RD was born March 8, 1924 to Michael Tibertius and Cecilia Deloris (Peoples) Carroll in Glendive, MT. RD grew up in Wibaux, MT, leaving at the age of 17 to join the Navy during WWII. Throughout his life he and his family would make numerous summer visits to Wibaux, but Daddy never wanted to experience the snowing blizzards again! During his 27 year career in the Navy, RD traveled across the world and was stationed in many places. Millington, TN was one such and holds a dear place in our hearts since that is where he met the love of his life – Betty Bowen. They courted four years and were married on July 6, 1952. Daddy took a small town southern girl and moved her to Guam. As he would say, “How many brides can say they spent an eighteen month honeymoon on a tropical island!” While he was stationed in Key West, FL, he was blessed to become father to two wonderful children, John and Ceci. The life of family man truly suited him. RD served as roll model, protector, and abundant love to his family for all of our lives.

The summer of 1969 saw RD retire from the Navy as Lieutenant Commander, after serving in World War II, Korea, and during Vietnam, and he began his teacher career at Northwest Community College in Electronic Technology. RD thoroughly enjoyed working with the students and meeting a whole group of new friends. RD went into his second retirement after fifteen years.

After moving to Mississippi in 1969, RD became a gentleman farmer and he and Betty began raising cattle on the Lazy RD Ranch. Not only did he enjoy raising cattle, he fell in love with growing some of the most beautiful gladiolas imaginable. RD and Betty began square dancing in the early 1980’s and continue this passion for many, many years. Yes, the dancing was great but the fellowship was even greater. RD lovingly served as honorary bartender for activities he and Betty were involved with at the Heflin House Museum in Sardis, MS.

RD was a life-long communicate of the Catholic Church and attended St. John the Baptist in Sardis, MS and was deemed the oldest Alter Server in the history of that wonderful little church.He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Charlie and Mickey, and his son, John. He leaves his wife of 64 years, daughter, Ceci, granddaughters Sarah and Kate (Phillip) and great-grandsons John and Charlie.

RD was a proud member of the American Legion and Knights of Columbus. Favorite charities of RD’s are St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Heflin House Museum and Catholic Charities (of whom Ceci and John were adopted through).

Visitation will be from 5:00 – 6:00 Thursday, March 2 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Sardis, MS with the praying of the Rosary at 6:00. Daddy’s wish will be fulfilled by holding an Irish Wake to follow at the Lazy RD Ranch. Mass will be offered at 1:00 on Friday, March 3 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Batesville, MS with burial to follow, with military honors, at Rose Hill Cemetery in Sardis, MS.

Ray-Nowell Funeral Home – Sardis Chapel is in charge of arrangements.