of Marion, AR
November 17, 1927 - July 5, 2023
William Andrew Carlson, 95, passed away on July 5, 2023, reuniting with his wife of 62 years, Jean Clark Carlson. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Walter C. Carlson and Emma Hedlund Carlson and his siblings, Ruth Scott, Eunice Cole, Louise Rogers, Viola Alpe, W.J. "Bud" Carlson and Ralph C. Carlson.
Born on November 17, 1927 in Blytheville, AR, William grew up in Crawfordsville, AR where he graduated as the valedictorian of his class. He might be described as a quiet person by those that didn't know him, but his mind never stopped working. He was an innovator, full of ideas that were before his time. His tinkering mind and strong-willed spirit were the driving force throughout his life and created a lasting impact on his family, friends and community.
William began early in life as a mechanic, but his innovative ideas and knowledge of equipment led him to farm with his brothers in Arkansas, Tennessee and Mississippi. Known by many as a farmer and pioneer of equipment, he instilled a love for agriculture, farm equipment and a strong work ethic into his children. Growing up in a post-depression era, he became a forward thinker when it came to business and investments. In 1966, he became a founding member of Fidelity National Bank, now Fidelity Bank and served as an active Charter Director of the board until his death. William was a life long member of the First Presbyterian Church in West Memphis, where he held the position of Elder and Deacon.
As Dad, Grandad, Doo Daddy and Uncle William, he will be remembered as a lover of sports, animals, pancakes and milk shakes. If one of his grands was playing, Grandad & Meemaw would drive all over to attend every possible baseball, basketball, football and tennis match. He rode countless rounds on the combine with his sons, daughter-in-law and grandsons, sharing all of the farming knowledge that he could. He made delicious fudge and didn't let a few missing fingers stop him from being the official family dipper of homemade ice-cream. He had kind eyes and a quiet smile that held so much love for those around him.
He is survived by his children, Mike (Candy) Carlson of Marion, Bill (Jane) Carlson of Hot Springs and Jane (Mike) Bennage of West Memphis; his grand-children, Dusty (Laura) Carlson, Kirby (Chrissy) Carlson and Carlson Bennage; and his great-grandchildren, Kennedy & Kora Jane Carlson and Pearl & William Carlson, along with many nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the First Presbyterian Church of West Memphis, Steudlein Learning Center, West Memphis Christian School or the animal shelter or rescue of your choice.
William's life will be celebrated in a grave side service at Crittenden Memorial Park at 8:00 A.M. on Friday, July 7, 2023.
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21 Condolence(s)
Jeff Wilson and the Wilson Family
Tuesday, July 25, 2023
Mr. Carlson, Just one great man with a smile always. Some God only make "1" he is that "1", Our memories to him and family ALWAYS.
Takrina Jones
Saturday, July 22, 2023
Dick Howard
Saturday, July 8, 2023
Always a smile and a handshake no matter if he had on a coat and tie or a pair of greasy coveralls. Lifting the family up in prayer.
Dennie Stokes
Friday, July 7, 2023
A true gentleman that was a blessing to his family and the community. His work ethic was known by all who were ever around him and obviously is instilled in his children and grandchildren. A kind man who will be missed by all.
Julia Jones
Friday, July 7, 2023
To the Carlson Family, I’m so sorry for your loss of this fine gentleman. He was always smiling when I saw him and will certainly be missed by all who knew him. May God Bless you and give you peace.
Dale & Holli Stewart
Friday, July 7, 2023
A person has to only look as far as the children of a man to see the true character of that man. Mr Carlson and the whole family show that character. A gentle spirit in a lions body is how I always looked at Mr Carlson. A true gentleman who made you feel as if you were the most important person when he took time to speak with you. He was honest, true, dedicated and a Christian in all aspects of life. The Good Lord above blessed us all when he made Mr Carlson. Thank you Lord for sharing this amazing man/family with us all. May the whole family see the blessing of Mr Carlson and his lineage that he left.
Freddy Lowery
Friday, July 7, 2023
So sorry to hear about Mr William.He was always super nice & friendly each & every time he came into the dealership.All the Carlson’s were very good to me during my time at the dealership!
Bob White
Friday, July 7, 2023
Mr. William was one of the best people I have ever known. He supported and encouraged me during my time at FPC and never failed to ask how Rob was doing when I saw him.
He will always be remembered by our family.
Ryan Stewart
Friday, July 7, 2023
Mr. William was an amazing person. From the first time I met him, I could tell that he had a lot of knowledge about farming, life, and the lessons that they bring. Always loved seeing him drive around the farm in his pickup, or driving by his house to see him either trimming the bushes, limbs, or doing other yard work while in his 90’s. Awesome example of an honest, hardworking, and great man that will truly be missed. My thoughts and prayer’s go out to family and friends.
Clyde & Amy Blaylock
Friday, July 7, 2023
A great man that I’ve known, since I was in the sixth grade, always kind to me. He will be missed greatly.
My prayers go out to the family
Amy Cupples
Thursday, July 6, 2023
William was so so kind to me and always had a smile on his face. My prayers and thoughts are with the family!
Denise Baxley
Thursday, July 6, 2023
I served Mr. Carlson & his family for many years. He was always active in the community.
May God cover his family in peace & comfort throughout this difficult time.
What a legacy he has left & may we strive to carry it on.
Patricia Marmino Warner
Thursday, July 6, 2023
Uncle William was a very great man and uncle! He always made me laugh and smile. His smile was the best. I will miss him. He is with Aunt Jean and my Mom (Betty) and Dad (Fred) Marmino, laughing and enjoying some spaghetti and meatballs. Love you Uncle William.
Mary Harness
Thursday, July 6, 2023
So sorry for your loss. Prayers to the family.
Chuck and Tami Farr
Thursday, July 6, 2023
Mr William was one of the nicest people in the world. He always had a friendly smile and would always stop and ask how you were doing. He was a leader and an inspiration for his work ethics and engineering skills that have been passed down to many generations. It was such an honor to have known him
Chuck and Tami Farr
Andy Luttrell
Thursday, July 6, 2023
Mr. William was a great to us at Fidelity Bank. He and my dad Harry were good friends in the past until dad passed away years ago. Mrs. Carlson was tremendous in Crittenden County Arkansas, too. Prayers for all the Carlson Family and families.
Sincerely,
Andy Luttrell
A.G. and Janet Rains
Thursday, July 6, 2023
Prayers for the Carlson family. May God grant Mr. Carlson's family peace and comfort that only he can provide.
Lynda Wise
Thursday, July 6, 2023
The family is in our prayers. Mr. Carlson was a unique person. He was pleasant and friendly wherever he saw you.
It’s wonderful when a parent leaves lasting memories for the family.
Sincerely,
Cliff and Lynda Wise
Matthew & Candace Glass
Thursday, July 6, 2023
To all of Mr. William’s family,
Candace and I are so sorry to hear of Mr. William’s passing. If you knew Mr. William, you loved him. What a tremendous loss for Crittenden County but a glorious blessing for heaven and his sweet wife. You all are in our prayers.
Jack Nall
Thursday, July 6, 2023
Very sorry to learn of William’s passing. I had the pleasure of knowing him for many years through Fidelity National Bank. William was genuinely a great man in that he cared about people…..all people. I always had great respect for him. He was always very pleasant and a joy to be around.
Roger Atkins
Thursday, July 6, 2023
Mike, Bill, and Jane I am sorry for your loss of such a special man! I always had great respect for your dad. May God bless you during this difficult time.
Roger