William "Buddy" F. Carroll Jr.

William "Buddy" F. Carroll Jr., 81, of Louisville, Kentucky, passed away on Wednesday, December 11, 2024. Born on November 14, 1943, in Louisville to William and Beatrice Carroll Sr., Buddy was a beloved father, Papa, and uncle, known for his warm heart and outgoing personality.

Buddy was a dedicated family man who cherished spending time with his loved ones. Together with his son, Clark, he co-owned Bud and Clark's Grading and Bobcat, a family business they worked side-by-side in for over 30 years. He was also a passionate participant in drag racing and truck pulls, where he proudly raced the “Gutless Cutlass” and competed with the “Bankrupt Buggy,” traveling to all 50 states to pursue his love of motorsports. His sense of adventure and love for family led him to many exciting memories, whether on the racetrack or spending time with those he cared about. He also shared a love of basketball with his grandson, great-grandsons, and nephews. Buddy enjoyed watching them all play, and cheering on his beloved BBN while watching UK games together.

Buddy met the love of his life, Beverly, when they were just 10 years old. They became high school sweethearts and were married for over 25 years, sharing a life full of love, laughter, and adventure until her passing.

Known for his infectious personality, Buddy made friends wherever he went. He enjoyed dancing, gambling at the casinos, collecting pocketknives and coins, and seeking out bargains at auctions to resell. But perhaps one of his most beloved pastimes was plowing snow in the winter, always ready to help his neighbors and community.

Buddy’s legacy of love for family, his hardworking nature, and his vibrant spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a true example of living life to the fullest, and his memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Buddy was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Beverly Payne Carroll; parents, William F. Carroll Sr. and Beatrice Deaton Carroll; sister, Rita King; and longtime companion, Teresa Wheatley.

Left to cherish his memory, Buddy is survived by his 2 children, Clark Carroll (Candi), and Christie Carroll; 7 grandchildren, Clayton Carroll (Taylor), Emily Short, Taylor Judd (Brittany), Caroline, Clint, Cole, and Cam Sherman; 6 great-grandchildren, Avery, Atlas, Braxton, Emry, Octavia, and Harley; 3 nephews, Raymond, Hunter, and Preston; and a host of extended family and close friends.

A funeral service for Mr. Buddy Carroll will be held at 4 PM on Friday, December 13, 2024, at Louisville Memorial Gardens West, 4400 Dixie Hwy, Louisville, Kentucky. Visitation will be held from 11 AM to 4 PM at the funeral home, prior to the service.