Stephen Wallis
Melvin Carroll Testimonial
Mel left too soon. He had been in good shape all his life, which makes his passing hard to believe. He was a terrific husband, father, and granddaddy. He was considered a friend to many, was a solid fire department battalion chief, and operated his own side roofing business for years. He was widely read on current events, mild mannered but tough, and enjoyed golf, having shot a 76 one day with an ailing hip.
Mel had a great sense of humor, as well as a gregarious laugh that was seemingly audible two blocks away. If he observed a vehicle broken down on the side of the road, it was not uncommon for Mel to stop and lend a hand; that’s just who he was.
He was a loving, devoted husband, and there was nothing he wouldn’t do for his wife, my sister, Flocy, or “Flo,” as he would call her, as well as for any other family member or friend. And…he was a graceful dancer, always enjoying dancing with Flo.
Years ago he found himself shorthanded one weekend for a large roofing job and asked if I’d mind lending an assist. I was happy to help on a beautiful sunny Saturday. The job required that I continually climb up and down a ladder with roofing shingles to supply to the roofers, off-duty firefighters who, like Mel, were great with carpentry tools, and they worked all day in the blistering sun, trying to keep up with their battalion chief, Mel.
While I could barely keep them busy with enough roof shingle packages placed at their side, I noted how Mel set the work beat for the entire day. I don’t think there was anyone who could out-work Mel Carroll.
Whether it was Melvin building their home in Davidsonville, or tending an inordinately large family home vegetable garden in an adjacent field, Mel gave 100%.
I enjoyed being in his company and will miss him. I take solace in his joining other family members and friends in Heaven, where he undoubtedly is among the most fit of angels, sounding an occasional boisterous laugh with a big smile.
Though we are sad to lose Mel, we’re better human beings because of his having graced our lives, providing us many good memories.
Thanks, Mel, and may God forever Bless you!
Stephen Wallis, brother-in-law