Gerry Carroll, 88, of Laramie, died Sunday, May 13, 2018 at Hospice of Laramie. He was born to Alta and Granville Carroll on July 28, 1929, the seventh of fourteen children. He was a 1948 graduate of Sheridan High School. He graduated the University of Wyoming with a degree in Marketing and a Master of Education in School of Administration. While in college, he was a member of the Wyoming Cowboys wrestling team.
Gerry married Natalie Owen on September 26, 1953. They moved to Riverton where he was employed as a sixth-grade teacher, a principal at Lincoln Elementary School, and the Assistant Superintendent of Riverton Schools. In 1968, the family moved to Buffalo where he served as the superintendent of the Johnson County Schools for 19 years. From 1987 – 1992, Gerry was the executive director of the Wyoming School/University Partnership. He also directed the LEAD program at the University of Wyoming.
Gerry then spent the next seven years in almost full-time work as the Yellowstone Conference Lay Leader of the United Methodist Church. During these years, he and Natalie traveled extensively throughout Montana and Wyoming.
Gerry was an active member of the Buffalo United Methodist Church serving for many years as a Stephen Minister and a Stephen Leader.
Gerry especially enjoyed time spent with his family. He spent several years completing the family cabin in the Big Horn Mountains and doing fire mitigation work on the surrounding acres.
Gerry was preceded in death by his parents and eight siblings, and one great grandchild. He is survived by his wife, Natalie; four children: Kirby (Sandra) of Gillette, Kevin of Laramie, Kelly (Juanita) of Laramie, and Ruth (Craig) of Fort Collins, Colorado; sisters: Rachel Terry, Docia Schuman and Ella Krull of Sheridan; brothers, Neal of Sheridan and George of Greeley, Colorado; nine grandchildren, and thirteen great grandchildren.
Private services for immediate family will be held at a later date that is to be determined. The family requests memorials be directed to your local hospice centers.
10 Comments To "Gerry Carroll"
#1 Comment By Anonymous On May 16, 2018 @ 9:13 am
Gerry, What a dear, fine man. Served his God and his family and humanity with kindness and sense of humor. He will live on in hearts of all who knew him. Sincere sympathy. Priscilla Baker
#2 Comment By John and Linda Ehlers On May 16, 2018 @ 10:02 am
Gerry epitomized CLASS. He never chased it, but he lived it in all aspects of his life. What an impact he had on us and others. Thanks to the family for sharing him. RIP,
#3 Comment By Skipp McCrary On May 16, 2018 @ 8:32 pm
Gerry was my high school wrestling coach., he set the standard for me. Grateful for having him in my life. Condolences to his family.
#4 Comment By Skipp McCrary On May 16, 2018 @ 8:35 pm
Gerry opened doors for me that changed my life. Condolences.
#5 Comment By Lori and Norb Lyle On May 17, 2018 @ 9:09 am
Our deepest condolences go out to your whole family~ Gerry was always so kind and thoughtful–he had a way of truly listening and considering what you said, and a quick smile to boot. He gave so much to the FUMC, and I’m sure all who knew him. Our prayers go out to you. Lori and Norb Lyle
#6 Comment By Bill and Judy Hines On May 17, 2018 @ 12:57 pm
Spent last nite on the mountain and got the news when I passed through Buffalo.
Judy and I want to offer our heartfelt condolences.
I personally feel the lost a great deal, Jerry was a fine friend and neighbor.
I hope you take some solace in fact that he helped a great many in his time, and will be missed by many.
I hope you will continue to stop by and see me when you are on the mountain.
Again our condolences
Bill and Judy Hines.
#7 Comment By Janet Czapla On May 17, 2018 @ 6:24 pm
I will always have fond memories of Gerry. My sympathies to the family. RIP, Gerry.
#8 Comment By Matthew Ramey On May 17, 2018 @ 9:55 pm
If you look up the definition of class… you found a picture of Gerry. While I knew Gerry later in his life, he is an individual that I will never forget. He was thoughtful and able to help guide you to a solution or calm resolution to just about any issue that arose. To Kevin, Natalie and family, the Brother’s of Anchor Lodge No. 7 send you more than our condolences, but our love, respect and crystal clear belief that we will all meet again. Although he walked on ahead, glory awaits. Alas my brother!!
#9 Comment By Vicki Chesbro Ward On May 21, 2018 @ 9:56 pm
Of the people I have known in my life Gerry was one of the most good-natured, kind, and intellectual men. He was an assertive leader with a quiet soul. While his very nature demanded respect he in turn respected others. Ones tendency was to sit up straighter and be more attentive when Gerry was present. He will be truly missed. It is with love and respect that I have called him my Uncle.
#10 Comment By Debbie Todd On June 9, 2018 @ 4:10 pm
Ruth and family,
I send my condolences for your loss. He is before Jesus now, Hallelujah. Praying for all of you as you learn to adjust your lives in his absence.
Debbie Todd