MSgt. James Edward "Ed" Carroll, Jr., USAF (Ret.)

MSgt. James Edward “Ed” Carroll Jr. USAF (Ret.), a proud veteran, beloved father, and devoted friend, passed away on April 30, 2025, at the age of 77. Born in Byron, Georgia, on October 15, 1947, to the late James Edward Carroll, Sr. and Thelma Bartlett Carroll, Ed lived a life marked by service and a genuine love for people.

After graduating high school, Ed answered the call to serve his country and joined the United States Air Force. Over a distinguished 24-year career, he rose to the rank of Master Sergeant (MSgt), earning the respect and admiration of those who served alongside him. His discipline, leadership, and dedication left a lasting impression throughout his military career.

Following his retirement from the Air Force, Ed continued his service to the community by helping to establish Houston County’s Animal Control department, where he became affectionately known by his call sign, "93 A." He brought the same commitment and work ethic to this role, eventually retiring from the department with the same sense of pride he carried throughout his life.

Ed never met a stranger. He had a remarkable gift for conversation and was known for always starting with a warm, “Where are you from?” He firmly believed in the power of human connection and often said, “That’s what’s wrong with the world; People don’t talk to each other anymore.” Those who knew him can attest—Ed never let a chance to talk, laugh, or share a story go by.

His legacy is one of service, sincerity, and the simple yet profound act of making others feel seen and heard. Ed will be deeply missed by friends, family, and all those whose lives he touched with his open heart and listening ear.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Billy Carroll and Bobby Carroll.

His memory will forever be treasured by his wife of 47 years, Linda Carroll; children, Paige Carroll (Jaeson), Lisa Savage (Victor), Liz Hodge (Shawn), Evan Carroll (Allie); grandchildren, Kayla Purcell (David), Tyler Savage (Janelle), Cameron Stratford, Hudson Hodge and Brendon Hodge; great-grandchild, Paul Alan Purcell, who was the apple of his eye; sister Brenda Waters (DB); and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be Sunday, May 4, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at Houston Lake Baptist Church with a funeral service immediately following. Afterward, Ed will be laid to rest in Roberta City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests memorial donations be given in memory of Ed Carroll, Jr. to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by visiting https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html .

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.