Joe Carroll Jr.

Joe was born in San Francisco, CA to Joe Carroll Sr. and Marjorie Hinds Carroll. His parents met during the second World War when Joe Sr. was stationed in California as a Base Legal Officer and Marjorie worked as a legal secretary.

Following the end of the war, the family moved back to Temple where his father returned to law practice.

Joe grew up on the north side of Temple. As a young man he worked for the Temple Daily Telegram as a newspaper boy, being awarded newspaper boy of the month multiple times. He was an avid reader of local news all his life.

Joe graduated from Temple High School in 1961. He continued his education at Temple (Junior) College, and later graduated from University of North Texas in 1965 and Baylor Law School in 1968.

He joined the Texas Airborne National Guard in 1969 and served until 1975.

After completing law school, Joe returned to Temple and re-opened his late father’s law practice. In 1970 he was appointed county attorney for Bell County.

In 1971 he married Susan Moreau of Port Arthur, TX. They shared their lives for 54 years.

In 1972, Joe was elected district attorney for Bell, Lampasas and Mills Counties. Four years later he retired from elected office and founded the law firm Carroll, Carroll & Brown with his brother Jimmy and their close friend Gerald Brown.

In 1988, Joe ran for and was elected judge of the 27th judicial district ultimately serving 24 years in that position.

In 2014, after 30 years of distinguished public service, he retired to devote more time to his horses and cows, land conservation and his grandchildren.

Joe was a descendant of a real Texas Cowboy (his grandfather) who was recruited and served in the 1st United States Volunteer Cavalry (aka Rough Riders) with Teddy Roosevelt. Joe always appreciated Texas history and the cowboy way of life. His horses brought him great joy.

He also loved the state’s many natural spaces. Canoe trips, river cabins and trail rides were among the highlights of Joe’s life. He spent many hours with good friends and family on both the gentle and wild rivers of Texas.

He and Susan also devoted many hours to the conservation of their ranch. From native prairie grasses and wildlife to soil conservation and responsible grazing, they loved and respected the land and hoped to leave it a better place for those that follow. They supported Texas Parks and Wildlife and the Texas Native Plant Society, as well as the Native Prairies Association of Texas where Joe and Susan were among the earliest members.

He spent his last days in peace on his beloved ranch with his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife Susan Moreau Carroll, his children Rachael Carroll, Tony Carroll (Darla) Leah Carroll (Dan) and five grandchildren. Joe’s brother and sister, Jimmy Carroll and Marjo Carroll survive him as well.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the compassionate hospice nurses and nurses aides who provided excellent care to Joe and support to Susan during his last few months.

Following a private burial at Texas State Cemetery in Austin, a visitation will be held on Saturday November 22 from 10am-12pm at the Presbyterian Church of Salado where Joe and Susan were members.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Temple College Foundation, 2600 S. First Street, Temple, Texas. 76504.

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