Eugene "Gene" Carroll

Eugene "Gene" Carroll, 82, Leaves a Legacy of Hard Work and Love

Eugene "Gene" Carroll, 82, of Gastonia, NC, entered into heaven on September 14, 2025, at 11:11 a.m., with his two beloved daughters by his side. Born October 20, 1942, in Kings Mountain, NC, Gene lived life defined by hard work, devotion to family, and an entrepreneurial spirit that turned humble beginnings into remarkable success.

Though his formal education ended after the eighth grade, Gene embodied wisdom and skill that could not be found in books. At the age of 12, he began mowing grass to earn his first wages, learning early the value of perseverance and determination. As a young man, he discovered his natural ability to work with his hands, especially on automobiles. There was no engine or machine too complicated for him-if it was broken, Gene could fix it.

He first applied his mechanical skills as a diesel mechanic at Akers Motor Line, where his reputation for reliability and talent grew quickly. Eventually, he opened G & G Garage, his first business, where his commitment to honest work and excellence earned the trust of his community. Gene later retired at just 49 years old from Carolina Freight, but retirement for him was not about slowing down-it was about new opportunities. He went on to establish Carroll's Auto & Truck Repair and later Carroll's Mini Storage.

Outside of business, Gene enjoyed life's simpler pleasures, cruising with his beloved wife, Phyllis, in their model cars and stopping to enjoy a cup of coffee together. Their bond was deep, and together they built a lifetime of memories filled with love and laughter. Gene and Phyllis also had a passion for travel, spending years exploring nearly every corner of the country with their family in a camper. Together they visited 49 states and 2 countries, turning their journeys into cherished adventures that their family will always remember.

Family was at the very heart of Gene's life. He was a devoted husband to Phyllis for 49 years until her passing, a proud father to his daughters Billie Jean Fillers (Dwight) of Gastonia, NC, and Jean Ann Crane (Eric) of Peachtree City, GA. He was a loving grandfather to Bailey Birtchet, Karson Smith (Chase), and Karmen Beaver, and a proud great-grandfather to Haven Smith, daughter of Karson and Chase.

His extended family are Todd Carroll (Sandra) and Genia Hamrick (Allen), and their families, including three grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

He was also a man of faith, a member of City Church in Gastonia, NC, where he found fellowship and strength in his later years. His life is a testament to determination, resilience, and faith. Gene leaves behind a legacy of hard work love, and family devotion that will continue to inspire generations to come.

All services will be private.

Arrangements are with the West Chapel of Greene Funeral Service located at 216 Archie Whitesides Road, Gastonia.

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