Carroll Linnell

Carroll Lee Linnell Jr., 84, of Benton, Maine, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family. Born on October 24, 1941, in Waterville, he was the first son of Carroll and Cecilia Linnell.

Carroll proudly served his country in the United States Navy, enlisting in December 1959. He served during the Cuban Crisis aboard the USS Hazelwood, earning several honors for his dedication, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Cuba), and the Navy "E" Ribbon.

In September 1963, while returning to the Hazelwood, the small boat transporting him capsized in Long Island Sound. He narrowly survived the accident, nearly drowning before being rescued. He was honorably discharged later that year, in December 1963.

On January 11, 1964, Carroll married the love of his life, Juanita Wade. Together, they built their family home on River Road in Benton, where they raised their three daughters and shared 61 years of marriage filled with devotion, partnership, and deep affection.

Carroll was a member of Siloam Lodge #92 and proud of being Mason for 47 years. He was also a member of The Valley of Augusta Scottish Rite and The Valley of Portland Consistory.

Over the years, he held multiple jobs before retiring from the Maine Department of Transportation after 24 years of service.

After retiring, he took great pride in his vegetable stand, tending his garden with care and joy. Carroll enjoyed gardening, hunting, and crafting wooden toys. He cherished time spent with Eric and "Bucky" at the dam, where many stories and memories were made.

Carroll was predeceased by his beloved wife Juanita; his parents; and several siblings and in-laws, including brothers Bernard and Bill Linnell; brother-in-law Jeff Small; Warren Wade Jr.; Neil Wade (and his wife Mary); and sisters-in-law Marilyn (and her husband Fred Wilson), Regina (and her husband Gordon Richards), and Phyllis (and her husband Ed Towers); as well as sisters-in-law Sandra Wade, Eliza Linnell, and Kathy Linnell.

He is survived by his daughters: Veronica (Vicki) and her husband Mark Gordon of Albion, Karen and her husband Barry King of Clinton, Hester (Lou) and her partner Johnny Denis of Waterville

His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Bridget and her husband Dave Christen; Ashley and her husband Lyle Peirce; Brandon King and his wife Molly; Brad King and his fiancée Ali; Justin Linnell and his fiancée Kassie; Devin Linnell and his partner Kaylee; and Sierra Linnell and her fiancé Jesse. He was also blessed with 13 great-grandchildren who brought him immense joy.

Carroll is also survived by his sister, Anne Small; brothers, Jimmy and Tommy Linnell; and sister-in-law, Wyone Linnell, and brother-in-law, Richard Wade.

At Carroll's request, a graveside service will be held on May 1, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Ames Cemetery in Benton.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Wendy, Katie, and Karen for their devoted care, love, and unwavering support over the past five years. Deep appreciation is also given to the hospice nurses whose kindness and presence brought comfort and peace to Carroll's final years.