James L. Carroll

James "Jim" L. Carroll, a respected attorney who practiced law in Jackson, Mississippi, for over 38 years, passed away on March 16, 2025, just 20 days shy of his 80th birthday. Born in Greenwood, Mississippi, in 1945 to Leo Irene and Mary Katherine Carroll, Jim's life was marked by dedication to his profession, his family, and his community.

Jim’s educational journey began in the public schools of Greenwood before he attended Millsaps College, where he graduated in 1967. Though initially considering a career in academia as a history professor, Jim ultimately followed his passion for justice and became a lawyer. His legal education was temporarily interrupted by the Vietnam War, during which he proudly served on active duty in the United States Army. After his military service, Jim returned to his studies, earning his law degree from the University of Mississippi School of Law in 1972.

A gifted trial lawyer and natural leader, Jim co-founded the law firm of Carroll Warren & Parker PLLC in Jackson, where he built a legacy of excellence. His leadership in the legal field was marked by his role as president of the Mississippi Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates, as a fellow of the Mississippi Bar Foundation, and as a member of the American Inns of Court.

Jim's influence extended beyond the courtroom. He dedicated many years to teaching as an Adjunct Professor of Law and Legal Skills Fellow at the University of Mississippi School of Law. His ability to captivate students with his storytelling and oratory skills made him a beloved mentor to the next generation of lawyers.

In addition to his legal career, Jim was deeply involved in his faith and community. He served as a Sunday School teacher for many years and actively participated in a number of civic and charitable organizations. His passion for wildlife conservation led him to serve as President of the Mississippi Wildlife Federation, and he was also a member of the Board of Directors for the National Wildlife Federation and its Board of Endowment Trustees.

In his role as an Adjunct Professor of Law and Legal Skills Fellow at the University of Mississippi School of Law, Jim enjoyed teaching the next generation of lawyers. An excellent storyteller and orator, he could hold the attention of listeners like no other. Jim was a voracious reader of the U.S. history and after retirement he shared his love of this subject and his country with students in the Mountain Home Arkansas community teaching many courses focused on American history.

Jim was an avid outdoorsman whose love for fishing, hunting, and nature led him to the Ozark Mountains, where he and his wife, Caroline, built a home overlooking the beautiful confluence of the North Fork and White Rivers. When not in the Ozarks, Jim could often be found in Oxford, Mississippi, cheering on his beloved Ole Miss Rebels.

James is survived by his devoted wife of over 30 years, Caroline Cornelia Kraft; his daughter, Virginia (Scott) O'Brien; his granddaughter, Reni O'Brien; his son, James Court (Genie) Carroll; his brother, Charles (Christy) Carroll; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and his cherished Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, Dixie Belle and Peggy Sue. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Leo Irene and Mary Katherine Carroll.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 21, 2025, from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm at Kirby & Family Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life will follow at 2:00 pm in the chapel, with Heather Marsalis, Celebrant, officiating. Military honors will be provided by Alley-White American Legion Post #52 and the United States Army Honor Guards.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Performing Arts Council at Arkansas State University-Mountain Home; the Donald W. Reynolds Library Serving Baxter County Foundation for Community Education Programs, Hospice of the Ozarks, or the Food Bank of North Central Arkansas. Arrangements are by Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services - Mountain Home, Arkansas. To leave an online tribute or sign the guestbook, please visit www.kirbyandfamily.com.