Donald Carrick

Donald “Don” Bain Carrick, age 85 of 32707 Valley Drive, Albemarle, NC 28001, passed away on November 10, 2010 peacefully in his favorite recliner at home. Born in Badin, NC on December 9, 1924, he was the son of the late Thomas Henry Carrick and the late Ida Mae Dickens Carrick. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Mary Aileen Kirk Carrick of the home; sons Donald Rochelle Carrick and wife, Karen, of Raleigh; and David Bryan Carrick and wife, Debbie, of Badin. He has three grandchildren; David Bryan Carrick, Jr., and wife Nikki of Locust, Amanda Carrick and Jonathan Carrick, both from Badin and four great-grandchildren; Rylee, Chelby, Summer and Madison were a joy in his life. Two nieces: Donna Kirk Ellison-Jones and husband, Wade; and two great-nephews; John Ellison and wife, Laura, of Badin, and Sam Jones of Badin. Debbie Kirk Jebaily and husband, George; and great-neice, Kayla and great-nephew Kirk, all of Florence, SC. A life-long member of Badin Baptist Church, he served in many capacities to include Chairman of the Deacons, Superintendent of Sunday School, Brotherhood President, Building and Grounds Committee, President of the Stanly County Baptist Brotherhood Association and enjoyed the monthly Sunshine Group meetings to name a few. He served the military for almost 40 years, retiring with the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. He was First Sergeant for the 263rd Combat Communications Squadron in Badin. As a WWII Veteran, he was as a radio operator and gunner on the B-17 Flying Fortress. His plane was shot down over Italy during its 52nd mission. He was Vice President of the North Carolina National Guard Association and served appointments by the Governor and on military legislative committees. He was awarded numerous awards and decorations during his illustrious career. He also served in numerous community affairs to include co-founding The Singing Americans of Stanly County, the WWII Veterans of Stanly County, and the project he was most proud of: The Christy Project, a fund-raiser to assist surgical needs for a much loved child in the community. He coordinated Christian Bus Tours for the community and was instrumental in accomplishing many trips around North Carolina and across America. While his sons were in school, he was president of the PTA. He served on advisory committees and was instrumental in major building renovations and integration in the schools. A life-long promoter of patriotism and respect for the flag, he spoke at numerous churches and public events. He was a 32nd degree Master Mason and a member of Yadkin Falls Lodge 637 until it dissolved summer 2010. A Memorial Service will be held Sunday, November 14, 2010 at 3:00 pm, Badin Baptist Church, 28 Falls Road, Badin, NC 28009. He requested donations be made to Badin Baptist Church, P.O. Box 337 in lieu of cut flowers. Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle is serving the Carrick family.