Lt. Robert E. "Bob" Carson

Lt. Robert E. “Bob” Carson, age 69, passed away in the early morning hours of Friday, October 21, 2016 surrounded by his wife and children. Bob’s professional life was dedicated to the service of his country. He served in the US Navy for four years and retired from the US Coast Guard after 20 years of distinguished service. As his family can attest the discipline and patriotism he learned in the military never left him. After retiring from the military, he continued his passion for service by assisting other veterans as a member of Gene Taylor’s Congressional staff. Bob made it clear to all that his greatest pride and joy came not from his many professional accolades, but from his role as a husband, father and grandfather. He instilled in his family the value of family and country, the importance of self-respect and of serving others. He had a quick wit and a ready smile. He loved his family and taught his children and grandchildren to love without condition. This is truly his greatest legacy. He is preceded in death by his parents; Robert and Alene Carson. Bob is survived by his wife, Melody Carson; his children, Lauren (Bill) Williams, Bobby Carson and Shayne (Cilya) Carson; his grandchildren, Grant, Victoria, Casey, Cilayne, Emily, Shayne, Bobby, Alden, Sydney and Chayni; his siblings, Holly (Ben) Wade, Jerry (Cecilia) Carson and Mike (Olivia) Carson; and numerous nieces and nephews. The family wishes to express a special thanks to the nurses and doctors of the KAFB Mecical Center ICU for the kindness shown to Bob and his family. In lieu of flowers the family prefers donations be made in Bob’s name to the Fisher House, 509 Fisher Street, Keesler AFB, MS 39534-2599; The Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport, MS 39507 or lmdc.org; or to the Coast Guard Family Assistance Funds @ cgfaf.org A Memorial Service to celebrate Bob’s life will be held at the First Presbyterian Church Chapel in Ocean Springs on Saturday, October 29, 2016 at 11:00 am. Friends may visit from 10:00 am until service time. The Howard Avenue Chapel of Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.