Obituary: Gawaine Carroll
Gawaine Carroll, a beloved self-employed truck driver and cherished family man, left this world on Sunday, April 6, 2025, at his home in Bolivar, Tennessee. Born on October 31, 1947, in the small town of Michie, Tennessee, Gawaine’s life was a tapestry woven from love, camaraderie, and heartfelt contributions to those around him.
Gawaine was not just a truck driver; he was a craftsman of relationships, a much-admired neighbor, and a source of inspiration to many. His warm spirit radiated through his many hobbies and interests. Whether it was the rhythm of country and gospel music that filled his home or the camaraderie found on the basketball court or while cheering for the Tennessee Vols, Gawaine embraced life with zest. A lover of go-kart racing, he could often be found working on lawn mowers or engrossed in the thrill of a jigsaw puzzle. His afternoons were complete with spirited games of cards and dominos, where laughter was the common currency exchanged among friends.
Above all, Gawaine was a devoted family man. He poured his heart and soul into every moment spent with his loved ones, especially his grandson, Austin Cossar, whose smile illuminated Gawaine’s world. The memories shared with his wife, Sandra Cross Carroll, whom he married on April 21, 1978; daughter, Sharon Renee Cossar and husband Billy of Bolivar; sister, Karen Carroll Dixs of Corinth, Mississippi; and special cousin, Bobby Cunningham of Morris Chapel, Tennessee, are the jewels, which will forever sparkle in the hearts of those who knew him. He is also survived by a son, Larry Gene Carroll and his wife, Tammy, of Stantonville.
He took pride in being a Christian and was an active member of the Hardeman County Arts Council, participating vibrantly in community events. As “Doc” in the local American Cancer Society production of “Hee Haw,” he became a cherished figure, blending his love for acting with his desire to uplift the spirits of those around him.
Gawaine’s legacy is enriched by the love he had not only for his immediate family but also for his grandchildren, Austin Cossar and fiancee’, Brooke Hickey of Bolivar, Josh Carroll and Hannah Carroll of Selmer, Blane Cossar and wife TaHanna of Middleton; and great-grandchildren Tannsley Cossar and Taylon Cossar. They carry forward the lessons of kindness, humor, and resilience that he so generously imparted.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Autry and Dorothy Fay Carroll; his in-laws, Isaac and Bonnie Cross; alongside his daughter, Michelle LaCroix; and brothers-in-law, Eddie Smith, Bruce Cross, and Bert Kay; as well as sisters-in-law, Ann Sammons and Joyce Kay.
Gawaine Carroll’s journey may have come to an end, but the vibrations of his laughter and the warmth of his love resonate in the hearts of many. His graveside service will be held at Bolivar Memorial Cemetery on April 8, 2025, at 1 p.m., where family and friends will gather to celebrate a life beautifully lived. With every joyful memory etched deeply in hearts and minds, Gawaine’s spirit will forever ride on the open roads of love he left behind. Memorial contributions in his name may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the American Cancer Society and its local production of “Hee Haw” in Hardeman County. Shackelford Funeral Directors of Bolivar is in charge of professional arrangements.
Courtesy of Shackelford Funeral Directors, Bolivar, Tennessee.
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