Roger P. Carrillo

Biography: Roger P. Carrillo, beloved husband, father, and Papa, passed away on May 7, 2025, he was 75 years old. Roger was born on January 4, 1950, in El Paso, Texas. As one of six children, Roger knew the value of family and of hard work.
Roger obtained a bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Texas – El Paso, and a master's degree of education in rehabilitation counseling at the University of Texas – Austin. Roger followed his passion for working with individuals who were beginning new lives after traumatic injury. Over his career, Roger helped numerous corporations develop nationally recognized general and brain injury rehabilitation programs. His final position, as Executive Vice President of Western LLC, brought him to Arkansas to expand the company's brain injury rehabilitation program across the nation. In addition to his corporate roles, Roger served on the board of the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) - a position he held for many years. Roger was known worldwide as a leader in the field of brain injury rehabilitation.
Roger is proceeded in death by his father Jacinto, mother Celia, and sister Vera. He is survived by Bonnie, his wife of 44 years, daughter Heather (Kyle), and grandchildren Wyatt and Bonnie Rose. Roger is also survived by his brothers JC and Martin, and his sisters Esther and Terri.
Roger will be lovingly remembered for his smile, quick wit, and laughter that often surprised those used to his impeccable professionalism. Roger loved the outdoors, fly fishing, the mountains, the beach, and could always be found by the grill perfecting a steak, salmon, or lobster tail. In addition to his many joys, his true hobby and passion was his family. Everything he did – he did for his family. Roger cherished his grandchildren and took every opportunity to take them on hikes, enlist them as taste testers, or perhaps teach them how to Hook'em Horns when his son-in-law wasn't looking. Roger was always around for his daughter with sage guidance, a helping hand, or a gentle nudge. His love and pride in her accomplishments were evident and always on display. His wife and partner was always by his side. Bonnie and Roger met in Austin and shared a life that took them to the East Coast, West Coast, and Nashville, before settling in a quiet neighborhood in West Little Rock nearly 30 years ago. Be it a gentle hand on his back while he was grilling, a furrowed brow at the same old joke, or just holding hands while walking down the beach – their love was obvious to everyone.
Roger was one of the good ones. If you knew him – you are better for it. He is loved and he is missed. We would like to thank the friends and caregivers who supported Roger during his illness.
A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 19, 2025, at St. Mark's Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers please donate to the Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA) at 912 Killian Hill Road SW Suite 105 Lilburn, GA 30047 or www.lbda.org or the charity of your choice. Arrangements are under the direction of RuebelFuneralHome.com