Carroll Cecil Laird, born on May 23, 1947, in St. Louis, Missouri, passed away on July 4, 2026, in Paragould, Arkansas. Carroll’s long life was marked by faith, devotion, and deep love for his family, his country, and his community.

From his earliest days in Illinois, through the fullness of his later years in Arkansas, Carroll’s life was guided by a steadfast faith and a servant’s heart. Those who knew him experienced firsthand his unwavering commitment to God, best exemplified by the love he poured into the Paragould Christian Church and its congregation. Carroll found immense joy and purpose within his church family, offering his time and energy in service to others and living every day as a devout man of God.

Carroll was also a patriot whose sense of duty led him to a distinguished military career that spanned almost 50 years. He began by serving four years in the Navy, before joining the Army and ultimately retiring as a Class 4 Warrant Officer—a rank achieved through years of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication. Carroll’s decorated career saw him deployed on numerous occasions; he was always ready to answer the call to serve, keeping a bag perpetually packed and his resolve firm. Through every post and deployment, Carroll set an example of commitment and honor, earning admiration and respect from colleagues and commanding officers alike.

After his military service, Carroll devoted 32 years of his life to Xerox, where he worked as a technician. His careful hands not only kept machines running but also built countless computers from scratch for friends and family. Carroll’s technical skills were simply an extension of his generosity—a quiet way of helping those around him and sharing the fruits of his knowledge.

Yet beyond his substantial public service, it was in the quiet moments with family that Carroll’s spirit truly shined brightest. Above all else, he was a wonderful husband, father, and Papa—a loving presence whose steady hand and gentle wisdom shaped generations. Carroll’s heart belonged to his beloved wife, Betty, whose companionship was a source of unending joy. Together, they raised a close-knit family: sons Spencer Laird and Justin Laird (Sophie), and daughters Janice Kibbe (Steven) and Carla Mitchell (Bill), each of whom carry his legacy of strength and compassion.

Carroll’s influence continues in his grandchildren: Beatrice Laird, Alice Laird, Amber Beasley, Seth Williams (Hailey), Tatumn Kibbe, Teghan Kibbe, Jake Mitchell (Laruen), Paige Mitchell, and Nick Mitchell. Each grandchild, along with his 9 great-grandchildren, holds cherished memories of their Papa—stories and smiles they will keep alive. His siblings, Tim Laird (Tracy) and John Laird, and Rebecca Laird, as well as his aunt Becky Arnette, remain to remember his loyalty. Carroll also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who were touched by his gentleness.

As the family celebrates Carroll’s life, they hold in loving memory those who have gone before him: his parents, Cecil and Edna Laird, his brother David Laird, and his great-granddaughter Kennedy Mitchell.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance at Phillips Funeral Home. Visitation will be held on Friday, July 10, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, followed by the funeral service at 3:00 PM with Duane Dutka officiating. Burial will follow at Shiloh Cemetery.