Donald Ray Carroll, 90, of Reno, went to be with his Lord and Savior surrounded by the love of his family on March 13, 2026. Don was born on August 4, 1935, in Pattonville, Texas, where he spent his childhood growing up on a farm alongside his parents, four siblings, a cousin, and an uncle in a small two-bedroom home that was always full of life. He attended Givens Elementary and Powderly High School, where he became a standout baseball player. His talent on the field earned him the opportunity to play in the minor leagues until an arm injury brought his baseball career to an end. He married Shirley Ray on October 27, 1956, and they had just celebrated their 69 th anniversary. In 1961, they moved to Garland, where he built a long and successful career as a machinist at Texas Instruments and retired after 35 years.
A strong Christian and devoted family man, Don lived his life grounded in faith. He was a longtime member of Austin Street Church of Christ in Garland, where he worshiped from 1967 until 2005. After moving back to his roots near Paris, he and his wife became faithful members of Lamar Avenue Church of Christ, where they continued attending until his passing.
One of Don’s greatest joys in life was bluegrass music. As a gifted musician and singer, he shared his passion with audiences across Texas and beyond. For more than 30 years he led the bluegrass band Spring Creek Grass, performing at festivals and gatherings where his music brought people together and created lasting friendships.
Don also loved traveling and making memories with family. He and his beloved wife, Shirley, spent many wonderful years RVing across the United States, often accompanied by their children, grandchildren, and friends. Those trips created stories and memories that will be cherished for generations. He was also a proud member of the Masonic Lodge and was a man known for his kindness, steady faith, and love for people.
At the heart of Don’s life was his deep love for his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and greatgrandfather who treasured every moment spent with those he loved. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Shirley Carroll, and their daughters Donna Carroll Wall, and her husband, Norris, of Irving and Lisa Carroll Denman and her husband, Matt, of Reno. And his legacy continues through his six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
Don’s life was a beautiful example of faith, family, and fellowship. Whether he was playing a bluegrass tune, traveling the country with his loved ones, or simply spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he filled every moment with joy and purpose. His music, laughter, and unwavering faith touched countless lives, and the memories he created will be treasured forever. The family finds comfort knowing he is now at peace in the presence of the Lord he loved and served so faithfully.
Services are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 20 th at Lamar Avenue Church of Christ with burial following in Union Grove Cemetery at Reno. The family will receive friends at Bright-Holland Funeral Home Thursday, March 19 th from 5-7 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Don and Shirley’s name to the “Don and Shirley PJC Schlarship Fund” @240 Clarksville St. , Paris, Tx
To leave a message or tribute for the family please visit www.brighthollandfuneralhome.com
