Carl McConnell Jr.

Carl McConnell Jr (Eddie) born on July 28, 1956, in Cary, North Carolina, departed this life on May 15, 2025, in Willow Spring, North Carolina. He lived a life filled with dedication to family, friends, and community, leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy of love.

Growing up in Cary, he graduated from Cary High School in 1975, where he was a member of the Cary Band. Carl embraced his early years working in his mother's florist, until he followed in his father's footsteps and became a rural mail carrier, a role he held with pride until his retirement. 

 He had an undeniable passion for cars, whether it was building hot rods, racing down the main street of Cary, or enjoying NASCAR/local racing events. He also embraced a variety of hobbies, from listening to southern gospel music with his father, providing lawn services with Charlie and his brothers-in-law to selling Christmas trees, cooking pigs/chickens with his special homemade secret sauce, providing concessions with the Sons of the American Legion, and volunteering with the Fairgrounds Fire Department. He could often be found camping at the lake with his family or fishing at the beach with friends. After his grandson was born his focus shifted to him. He was always supporting him or taking him someplace fun. 

Those who knew Carl well recognized that while he could be rough around the edges, he possessed a heart of gold. His generosity impacted many in his community.

Carl is survived by his oldest daughter, Mandy Branch, and her husband, Daniel; his grandson, Jonathan McConnell, affectionately known as his “lil man” and his fiancé Emma; his nephews Thomas (Lisa), Carl (Megan), John (Lauren), and Evan; as well as great nieces and nephews Elli, Hudson, Palmer, and Hudson. He is also remembered by his sister-in-law Barbara Poole, brothers-in-law Mac Poole and Jeff Martin, and his aunt and uncle Alfred and Ann McConnell, who loved him dearly, cousins and close friends. 

He joins in eternal rest the love of his life, Kay McConnell, his daughter Ashley McConnell, his granddaughter Makayla McConnell, his devoted sister Sara Martin, his parents Carl and Jean McConnell, and in-laws Charles and Shirley. Their memories will continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

Visitation will be held on May 18, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Carter Funeral Home in Garland, North Carolina. A graveside service will follow on May 19, 2025, starting at 2:00 PM at Montlawn Memorial Park in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Carl McConnell Jr. led a life filled with service and love.  He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.