Service
Richard Loyd Carson, 82, of Kernersville, NC passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, August 22, 2023 after a long illness. He was born on October 19, 1940 in Burke County to the late Rick Lee Carson and Mattie Hawkins Carson.
Richard attended Glen Alpine High School before enlisting in the United States Navy at the age of 17. While stationed at US Naval Base Pearl Harbor, he proudly served in the South Pacific, Japan, and Singapore. He served as a boilerman 2nd Class aboard the destroyer ship, USS Radford. While serving, Richard completed his high school education and later completed an engineering degree from Western Piedmont Community College. He worked as an engineer in the furniture industry for over thirty years.
Shortly after being honorably discharged from the Navy, Richard returned home to Morganton, NC, where he married Mary Lou Johnson, his wife of 59 years. Together, they raised their daughter, Sheila, and son, Barry, in Morganton and then in Cleveland, TN. They attended many basketball, softball (which Richard coached), tennis, football, and scouting events. Richard imparted upon his children a love and compassion for animals (especially dogs), as well as his love of travel and the beauty of nature.
Once retired, Richard became an avid participant in the Navy Reunions held annually for those who served on the USS Radford. He also participated in antique tractor shows where he showed Farmall. He was a “collector” of many things.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Donald Carson and Charles Carson; and sisters, Marjorie Carson and Naomi Carson Duckworth.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mary Lou Johnson Carson; daughter Sheila (Audra); son, Barry (Zabrina); grandsons, Skylar Gallimore, Rhett Carson and Graham Carson; brother David Lee.
The family will receive friends from 11am to 1pm, Saturday, August 26, 2023 at Sossoman Funeral Home. The graveside service will follow at 1:30pm at Burke Memorial Park. Military honors provided by the US Navy and the Caldwell County Veteran Honor Guard.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Noah’s Ark Animal Rescue or your favorite dog rescue.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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So sorry for your loss. Praying for the family.
I always thought the world of Richard! My dad did also! Praying for the family!🙏❤️
Richard was an amazing man. I had the honor of being one of his personal care assistants and I wouldn’t trade that for the world. My condolences, love and prayers to his family. Rest easy Richard
Richard was a sweet man! I had the honor of being his caregiver for a little over 1 1/2 years. He loved his family! My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. God speed Richard.