Robert Warner Carroll, veteran, active in community

Robert “Bob” Warner Carroll, 82, passed away peacefully Friday, Aug. 16, 2024. Born March 26, 1942, in Baltimore, Md., he was the beloved only child of Benjamin Carroll and Margaret Warner Carroll.

Bob’s early life was marked by notable achievements. He graduated from Bel Air High School as class president, valedictorian, and co-captain of the undefeated 1959 football team. He continued his education at the University of Delaware, where he excelled academically, earned a spot on the dean’s list, served as president of Kappa Alpha Fraternity (BE Chapter), and was a member of Omicron Delta Kappa Service Fraternity. In 1964, Bob graduated with a degree in chemical engineering, was recognized as a Distinguished ROTC Military Graduate, and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army.

Following graduation, Bob worked as a process engineer for Shell Chemicals company in Texas before being activated in the U.S. Army. He served as a platoon leader in the 1st Cavalry Division in South Vietnam from 1965 to 1966. He was awarded the Bronze Star for his participation and contributions in the Pleiku and Bong Son campaigns.

Following his military service, Bob embarked on a successful career with Sunoco Inc. in 1967. Over the span of 40 years, he held various positions in process engineering, operations, strategic planning, crude trading and process safety management, becoming a respected leader in his field. After retiring from Sunoco, Bob remained active, working as a risk consultant for Baker Risk for an additional two years.

Bob’s dedication to his community was reflected in his many volunteer roles. He was an assistant scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 66, a member of the Bethlehem United Methodist Church choir, and served as Thornbury Township auditor and chairman for Memorial Day observance. Bob was also a proud Mason, achieving the distinguished rank of 33rd Degree Scottish Rite Mason and serving as both master and secretary of Temple Masonic Lodge No. 11.

In addition to his career and service, Bob found great joy in his summers spent at Lewes Beach, where he and his family shared their beloved cottage with friends and loved ones over the years. These cherished moments at the beach were some of Bob’s fondest memories and where he also enjoyed relaxing with a good Manhattan from time to time.

Bob was a man of integrity, kindness and generosity – a role model and a friend to all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of service, leadership and love. He is survived by his devoted wife of almost 60 years, Jane Carroll (nee Williams); his loving children, Susan (Bob) Ricciuti, John (Heather) Carroll and Joanna (Brian) Newton; and his cherished grandchildren, Rudy, Kate, Harry, Maggie, Tadd and Hayden. He is also survived by his dear in-laws, Ralph (Bonnie) Williams III, their sons Bryan (Lauren) and Andrew (Rita), and their grandchildren. Bob is predeceased by his dear nephew Brett (Genevieve) Williams.

Bob’s presence in the lives of those he touched will be deeply missed but forever remembered. His family, friends, and community will continue to honor the incredible life he lived.

Relatives and friends are invited to his visitation from 9 to 11 a.m., Friday, Sept. 6, at Bethlehem United Methodist Church, 4 Westtown Road, Thornton, Pa., followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in memory of Bob to either the Jack Gerster Fund at the University of Delaware or to Nemours (formerly AI duPont Hospital for Children).

For UD, send contributions to: University of Delaware, Gift Administration, 83 E. Main St., 3rd Fl., Newark, DE 19716. Make checks payable to “University of Delaware” and include on the memo line “in memory of Robert W. Carroll.” Gifts can also be made securely at udel.edu/makeagift; select “different option” and search for Jack Gerster Fund.

For Nemours, send contributions to: Nemours Children’s Hospital, attn: Shands, 1600 Rockland Road, Wilmington, DE 19803 and include in the memo “in memory of Robert W. Carroll.” Gifts can also be made at Nemours.org.

Visit Robert’s Life Memorial at parsellfuneralhomes.com.