Carroll Edward Kirkpatrick

On February 14, 2023, at the age of 67, Heaven called home His faithful servant, Carroll Edward Kirkpatrick, after a brief, albeit wearisome, battle with cancer.  

Born in Marion in 1956, Carroll grew up in McDowell County, graduated from McDowell High School, and left home to serve the United States Army.  He later met and married his sweetheart Donna Kaye, and after serving his country as a Military Policeman, Carroll came back to McDowell and earned an Associates degree while working in the retail business sector.  Later in life, he joined the NCSHP brotherhood by proudly protecting the highways as Master Trooper with the North Carolina State Highway Patrol for 25 years. Carroll served initially in Macon County, transferred to Rutherford County, and concluded his Law Enforcement career in McDowell, where he lived most of his life.  Even after retirement, Carroll continued to work and serve in his community as an employee of Marion Chrysler, a devoted member of Turkey Cove Baptist Church, and diligent constituent of the Fraternal Order of Police.  “Friends are family you choose,” and Carroll created many fond memories with friends during golfing adventures, camping trips, and motorcycle rides.

Carroll modeled for others in the Christian faith as a loving husband, dedicated son, virtuous dad, granddaddy, and godly brother to all around.  Preceding him in death are father-in-law Jack Marlow and mother-in-law Lois Marlow. Surviving Carroll is his beloved wife, Donna Marlow Kirkpatrick of 46 years, son Nick Kirkpatrick and daughter-in-law Desarae, granddaughter Kaley Kirkpatrick, father and mother Eddie and Inez Kirkpatrick, sister Jeannie Clontz (Jerry), brother Robert Kirkpatrick (Tammy), sister-in-law Susie Alexander, brother-in-law David (Pam), brother-in-law Tim (Jasmina) and many other extended family members and friends.  In tribute to the absolute truth within the song lyrics that hang in his living room: “Love the people that God gives you ‘cause one day he will want them back,” Carroll’s family and friends are grateful for the time that God allowed him to visit with us on Earth.  

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in Heaven.”  Matthew 5:16  Even as he labored during his last days while enduring round-the-clock pain, Carroll yearned to set a good example to others and to bring smiles to family and friends. Folks who visited with him recently can testify to his positive attitude, and lighthearted banter in an attempt to brighten the day with laughter.  He will be greatly missed and will always hold a special place in our hearts.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, February 17, 2023 at 12:00 p.m. in the chapel of Beam Funeral Service with the Reverends David Edwards and Jerry McClain officiating. The family will receive friends on Thursday, February 16, 2023 from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. A private family interment will follow the service at the Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills in Forest City, NC or the Charles George VA Medical Center.