Donald R. Carroll's Obituary
CARROLL, Donald "Don" R., age 89, of Spring Valley, passed away on June 20, 2026.
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of a hardworking, devoted family man and loyal friend, Don Carroll, of Spring Valley, Ohio. He was born February 24, 1937, in Bullcreek, Tennessee, and went to be with our Lord on June 20, 2026.
Don is preceded in death by his parents, Nelson and Vina Carroll of Norma, Tennessee; his beloved wife, Judy Carroll; his three children, Steve, Chris, and Pam Carroll; a beloved brother, Olanda Carroll; and his two sisters, Beatrice Patton and June Illuzi. He is survived by his two daughters, Lynne and Christine Carroll; his son, David Carroll; more than 65 grandchildren, including great-grandchildren; two sisters, Cloene Hedrix and Faye Austin; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends.
Throughout his life, he made countless sacrifices for his family, often putting the needs of others ahead of his own without seeking recognition or praise. He worked long hours and did whatever was necessary to provide opportunities and security for those he loved. His devotion was evident in the quiet ways he showed up for his family and friends day after day.
He spent nearly seven decades operating a Ford backhoe, a profession that was both his livelihood and his legacy. Most people will tell you Don was the best backhoe operator they had ever met and that his “hoe” was an extension of his right arm. A drive through town or a country road was often accompanied by stories of the businesses, homes, and jobsites he remembered – footers, basements, septic leach lines, etc. The stories were never told with pride alone, but with gratitude for a lifetime spent doing the work he loved with the many friends who worked alongside him over the years. Don owned his own business and operated his backhoe until he became ill at age 85.
Outside of work, he was a collector of “everything”. People came to Don’s barn to find what they couldn’t find in the stores. The trick was to leave the barn without a hole in your pocket! He loved to wheel and deal. He could often be found at the Caesar's Creek flea market looking for a good deal - buying and selling and enjoying conversations with friends and strangers alike. On a typical weekend, he brought more stuff to sell than most, and he gave away more stories than most. Don loved to talk. He would offer patrons a shady seat, a bottle of cold water, and many stories – they often left as new friends.
Above all else, he was proud of his large family. Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his children, grandchildren, and extended family. He cherished family gatherings and the memories created with those he loved most.
He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, laughter, and family devotion. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his stories, values, and countless lives he touched will live for generations to come. A life measured not by what he accumulated, but by the people he helped, the stories he shared, the memories he helped create, and the family he loved.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Scherry Diamond, whose patience, kindness, and unwavering compassion brought comfort and dignity to his life during his final years.
The family will receive friends from 11 am to 1 pm on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Conner & Koch Funeral Home in Bellbrook. Funeral services will be at 1 pm on Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will immediately follow at Spring Valley Cemetery. The family will host a meal following the burial at Roxanna Party and Event Barn, 1985 Roxanna New Burlington Rd, Waynesville, Ohio 45068. If desired, contributions may be made to Ohio's Hospice of Dayton. Condolences at https://www.connerandkoch.com.
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