Richard Carr

Richard L. Carr, age 70, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on September 9 ^th . One of Rick's greatest desires was to provide for his family and to raise his son and daughter to be happy, self-reliant and fulfilled individuals. He retired after 32 gratifying years with Bridgestone Americas. During that time, he raised a family, coached soccer, baseball, basketball and played tennis and golf. He enjoyed boating and was a proud supporter of the Tennessee Volunteers. Rick was a grounded, common sense man who knew exactly who he was. He was a great communicator, the voice of reason, who had the innate ability to calm the waters at work or home with practicality and wit. Rick was a man with vision and knew how to make things happen. He mentored and empowered work "teammates" and friends and helped to instill constructive "life skills." He was a good man who always tried to do the right thing. He amazed us with his incredibly optimistic attitude about everything, including his 2007 ALS diagnosis, which he handled with integrity and inspiration. He invested in that which was larger than himself- family, friends and love of God. He made a cheerful difference in this world. He will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by all, including his much loved dog, Duck. Safe travels into the life beyond, dear, sweet, Rick.Rick was the much loved husband of Kathy (Benson) and father of Leslie and Jeff. He is survived by his mother, Mary Lou Carr. Other survivors include his sister, Vicky Wallace (Bob), brother-in-law, David Benson (Diane). He also leaves behind three cherished granddaughters; Abigail Carr, Aiden Roney, and Olivia Carr; nieces, Amanda Wallace, Tyler and Bailey Benson; nephews, Michael (Caity) and Daniel Wallace. Mr. Carr was preceded in death by his first wife, Margit Louise Brown Carr, and his father, Everett L. Carr.A memorial service will be held on Thursday, September 20 ^th at First Baptist Church in Gallatin, TN, 205 East Main Street. Visitation is from 3-4 PM in the Connection Center. The service will be held in the sanctuary at 4:00 PM. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to ALS Tennessee Chapter, PO Box 40244, Nashville, TN 37204 or Alive Hospice, 1718 Patterson Street, Nashville, TN, 37203.