Richard C. Carlson (Dick, Papa), 93, of Bartlett, passed away on Saturday, April 26, 2025. Dick was a long-time member of Ellendale United Methodist Church. He is survived by his sons, Dick Jr. (Carla) and Bobby (Kathy), and his daughter Laurie Michael (Stephen). Dick also leaves six granddaughters and six great-grandchildren. He was proceeded in death by his wife Evelyn, daughter Catherine Flanagan, grandson Clint Carlson, and great-granddaughter Kailee Douthit. He was the son of Thelma M. Wilkinson and Charles R. Carlson. Although born in Des Moines, IA, Dick spent most of his childhood in Colorado until joining the Navy in 1948. While stationed in Millington, he met his future wife, Evelyn Smith. They were married for 62 years until her death in 2013. He worked as an industrial instrument/electronic technician for Velsicol, Firestone, and FedEx, retiring in 1994. Dick was an assistant coach for the Ellendale River Rats 1968 Shelby County Championship Baseball team. He was also an avid fisherman and RVer. Funeral services will be held at Memphis Funeral Home, 3700 N. Germantown Rd on May 1, 2025. Memorial gifts in Dick’s name can be made to the Chromosome 18 Registry and Research Society or St. Jude’s.
