of Little Rock, AR
January 30, 1949 - July 10, 2023
William Pearson Carlton, 74, of Little Rock, Arkansas passed away from Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis peacefully in his sleep the morning of July 10, 2023. Bill was born on January 30, 1949 in Little Rock, Arkansas to Carrie Lee and Joe Carlton. In 1967, Bill graduated from North Little Rock High School and followed in his great-grandfather, Claude Sidney Carlton's footsteps, to attend Baylor University. In 1970, he married his high school sweetheart, whom he met in the 5th grade, Patricia Rose Carlton. Bill and Pat went on to have two children, Joanna Rose Carlton and John William Carlton.
After graduating with a degree in accounting, Bill went to work with his father, Joe, at Carlton-Bates Company. Bill spent over 40 years at Carlton-Bates Company, an industrial electronics distributor. He successfully grew the company and gained a reputation as an honest and caring, yet tough, businessman. Passionate about innovation in the business world, Bill dedicated much of his life to Carlton-Bates Company. Bill cared deeply for his employees and thrived on having a family-friendly company culture before it was commonplace. After selling his business to a Fortune 500 company in 2005, Bill retired and spent several years traveling, reading, building intensive lego sets and enjoying his family.
Bill was known to be a loyal, kind person, devoted to his family, especially his wife, Pat. Their almost 54-year marriage was the cornerstone of his life and family.
Bill was a philanthropist with a heart for Easter Seals, Alzheimer's Arkansas, Baptist Health Foundation and Fellowship Bible Church. An early adaptor for having a men's presence in the church nursery, Bill shared the gospel with everyone from toddlers to tenth graders and followed up with couples at Community Bible Study. Bill was also grateful for and supported the Baylor University Hankamer School of Business, which he credited for much of his business success.
Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Carrie Lee and Joe Carlton and his son, John William Carlton. He is survived by his wife, Patricia Rose Carlton; his daughter, Joanna Rose Carlton; daughter-in-law, Kirsten Henry Fredrich and his grandchildren, Sidney Rose, William, Pearson, Collin, Eva, Sawyer and Andrew.
There will be a private graveside service for the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to Easterseals Arkansas at 3920 Woodland Heights Road, Little Rock, Arkansas, 72212 or easterseals.com/arkansas
Pat, I’ve just found out about Bill’s passing. I am so very sorry. He was such a nice guy and you two were so good together. He was always so kind and his good looks reminded me of Paul Newman. God bless you and your family. I wish i could take your pain away. All those Carlton’s in Heaven will take good care of him. I know my dad and Ruth will for sure. They loved him so much. If there is ever anything i can do for you; I’m here and I’m sending you my thoughts and prayers.
Bill was truly kind. If you look at his photo, it’s clear. He was as humble as he was successful. Love to Pat and Jodi. There is true comfort in knowing he’s with John how. We will see them again💕
Although I never met this beloved man, I know his daughter Jodi. Jodi exemplifies a woman of integrity, deep love for her family and she is a loyal and steadfast friend and community member. She’s a beautiful legacy for her father’s life and work. I celebrate his devotion and example of a life well lived.
Carlton Family, I am so very sorry for the loss of your husband, father, grandfather. I know he had a tremendous impact on each one of you and that he will be desperately missed. My prayers are with you in the days to come.
Carlton Family, I am so very sorry for the loss of your husband, father, grandfather. I know he had a tremendous impact on each one of you and that he will be desperately missed. My prayers are with you in the days to come.
Just now hearing of Bill's passing. Sorry for your loss. Bill was a great guy who I know will be missed by his friends and family.
Pat I WAS SHOCKED TO SEE Bill in the paper Sunday.I had planned on having him another 50 years tHERE are not enough superlatives for him. we both know he is in heaven as we must struggle on with it. You two have been my favorite couple for a very long time. call on me if i can ever help GOD BLESS YOU AND FAMILY. JOE LAMB
Pat,
…if there were words to express deep sorrow, I would write them. But as we know, there are no words. I grieve with you.
Love in Christ,
marilyn book
So sad to hear the news!
Bill was very kind man and very supportive to me when I worked for him. I have fond memories of he and his family and my time at Carlton-Bates. Praying for the family for comfort!
May God Bless You All!
Bill Carlton gave me my first career opportunity in the distribution world. The culture that he and Joe had built at Carlton-Bates Company was one of family, friendship, and extremely high ethical standards. I vividly recall Harry Bonds telling me when he offered me the job that "You will never be asked to do anything here that would compromise your ethics in any way." And that statement was true to the core. I am only one of hundreds of individuals who were allowed to grow and thrive in their careers because of Bill's dedication and tireless work. My most heartfelt condolences to the family, and eternal gratitude to Bill for creating an enduring legacy of servant leadership.
Bill was always a class act in the electronic business! Over many years we worked as competitors but always friends. Prayers for the Carlton Family.
Pat, I just heard from Tom Prince about Bill's passing. I am so sorry for your loss. As you know, he was one of my closest friends growing up and, even though we went our separate ways later in life, I thought of him regularly. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Bill Carlton was one of life’s “early friends.†Having known Bill first in Junior High School and High School. We went our separate ways in our College years, but I always knew and respected Bill’s reputation as a successful business man, committed family man, and devoted Christian.
Pat, I hope you know how I feel in my heart for You, Bill and your family.
And my, how time has flown by hasn’t it. I’ve missed you here but will see you all again on Heaven’s shores.
Our prayers are with you. Be strong in Christ. Much Love.
…Tom Prince
I have just been reading all the accomplishments of this wonderful man, Bill Carlton, and am so sad that he has gone from this life, before I got to meet him. I can imagine the grief and loss of his family. I dare to write because I am a distant cousin, and knew and cherish the memories of his great grandfather Rev Claude Carlton and grandmother Maude (Scales??) Carlton. There are few left, like me, who knew and loved them in the 50s and 60s. He was my pastor, married me and my husband, and officiated my Dad's funeral.
I can imagine that these are things Bill would like to have heard about.
My father, Cleady Pearson, was second cousin of Mrs Carlton, and we met and loved her aunt Miss
Rosa Pearson, who was my grandfather's first cousin. Getting to know them and find the family connections was so meaningful to me as a teenager, that I have learned a great deal about the Pearsons of long ago, our good Christian heritage. I plan to give my contact information to the funeral home office, in case you would like to get in touch. I would love to talk with you , or write about what I rember, and/or send you Pearson records.
Please accept my deep condolences, and know that I am praying for strength and comfort to you all.
I am so sorry to read the obituary of Bill Carlton. I wish I could have known him. o
We are praying for God’s comfort for you and your family
Bill was admired and respected by all. Our paths crossed in service at church and Community Bible Study, and he and Pat exemplified the gift of marriage. May sweet memories fill your hearts as Bill receives his eternal reward. We are never ready. With prayers and much love.
So very sorry to learn of Bill’s recent passing. He was such a wonderful guy to be around, to serve with on the Board of Easterseals, to play golf with, or just to share a meal. Always the perfect gentleman …with a heart of gold. Our sincere sympathies are with Pat and his loving family. - Terry & Mary Lou
With heavy hearts, we acknowledge the passing of our dear friend and supporter, Bill Carlton. Bill's extraordinary generosity and dedication have been integral to Easterseals Arkansas mission, directly impacting countless lives within our community.
To Pat, and all of Bill's loved ones, we express our deepest sympathies. His enduring spirit and commitment to service will forever be a part of our organization's legacy.
Bill, your memory will continue to inspire us, and your kindness will echo in the lives you've touched. We honor you by continuing our work with the same compassion you displayed throughout your life.
In sincere condolence,
The Entire Easterseals Arkansas Community
Pat, Alan and I are so saddened to learn of Bills passing. He was an adorable man and we had great love and respect for him. As we also have for you. We are thinking of you and your family during this loss of your precious husband. Sending you love from both of us.
Loved seeing Bill at the Knife and Fork Club here in Dallas and on Fourth's of July in Little Rock. I'll really miss him. Love to Pat.
Pat, so sorry to hear this our prayers are with you and the family.
Pat, so sorry to hear about Bill. He was such a fine husband and father. I feel privileged yo have known him. Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Pat and family,
I want to celebrate Bill,s life by saying I liked and respected Bill as a friend and customer. He was always upbeat, positive and friendly. He said his only two vices were cars and clothes. He once owned a car dealership and I helped him with the clothing vice for over 35 years.
He spoke lovingly of you and your children and his parents. Bill always showed his underlying Christianity by his walk and talk. I am proud to have known him and say he was a model for others to follow. He will be missed but forever fondly remembered.
Sorry to hear about this. Bill was an old friend from the 80's and a super good guy. Always up front and honest about everything. The world will miss him.
Pat and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Bill made an incredible impact on those served by Easterseals Arkansas. He was a man of tremendous compassion. He was a true friend and will be greatly missed.
May God bless you and your family.
Pat,
There are no words to say to convey my deep sorrow for you and Jodi. My prayers are with you and I wish I could give you a huge hug. You deserve all the happiness in the world. If I can be of any help know I’m here for you. Love you!
Trudy
Bill was indeed a fine Christian man who was an inspiration that included boyhood friends and business associates.
I will pray for Pat and the family as they process this loss.
I have such fond memories of you all as my next-door neighbors as I grew up in North Little Rock. From babysitting when your kids were little, to watching Bill pay for a fellow college choir member to travel Germany with the choir, and then to the beautiful bridal shower you gave me before my wedding, I have been blessed to have known you and call you my friend. Thank you for sharing your life with me, and especially for sharing the love of Jesus. I am praying for God’s peace to lift you up and sustain you during this difficult time. With much love, Ashley Nowell Rutz
Dear Pat and family,
Susie was kind enough to send me a notice of Bill’s passing…I am so very sorry for your loss. You two were such a wonderful team.
I know you are people of great faith…may it sustain you all through these difficult times.
With deepest sympathy,
Ruthie Holland
It was an honor to work for Bill Carlton. He always knew your name and truly cared about his employees. He was truly a man of God and the of the highest integrity. I’m sure he will be greatly missed. Love and prayers to his family.
Pat, so very sorry to hear of Bill's passing. I'm so grateful you had so many wonderful years together yet not enough. So glad also to have seen you both at the reunion. Love and prayers.
Mona Goossens
When I heard of the passing of Bill, my first thought was, “how many are in heaven today (or will be) due to the generosity of Bill and Pat?†They gave abundantly to missions, ministry, and church facility renovation and construction. These gifts opened opportunities for many to know Jesus and grow in their love for Him. They also gave their time in service to the church and community, I.e., Baptist Hospital, Baylor University, and others too numerous to mention. Bill and Pat have been greatly blessed in this life, but I submit they have blessed others even more. I pray for the family, peace, joy, hope, and health. You are dearly loved. John 14: 1-3.
Sweet Pat
I wish I’d known your Bill. He must have been something truly special! Sending love and deep sympathy in your loss.
Pat and Jodi, I’m so thankful to have gotten to know your family through our church at Park Hill Baptist. Bill and I had such great times on the snow ski slopes where we met, and in teaching the youth in Sunday School every week. Bill was a great example of living a Christian life that is abundant. His charisma, intelligence, enthusiasm and humor were all assets that drew people to him and made everyone’s life more enjoyable. He loved first his God, and then his fellow man. It is an honor to have been included as his friend.
Pat and family, I first met Bill in the 4th grade at Park Hill Elementary, we discussed this at our class reunion back in April. He always was kind and had a joyful spirit. I was saddened to hear of his passing but I know in my heart it is a joyous occasion in Heaven as he is reunited with his Mother, Father and son John. My prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.
God Bless you and kindest regards,
Dan Bradford
Bill will truly be missed. I had the honor to work with him for many years. He was a man of integrity, he loved his family and cared for those who worked with him. Praying for the Carlton Family.
Pat, I am so sorry about your loss. What a wonderful man and husband you had. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
We are so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. It was a pleasure to work with him during our time at Carlton-Bates. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. May God grant you comfort & peace.
Pat, I am so deeply sorry for your loss. While I didn’t get to be with Bill often I always looked forward to the times we were together for all of the reasons expressed in the comments above. Whether it was dinners with both of you at Brave New or lunch with Bill while our girls were at book club. Bill was fun, engaging, and so easy to be with. I have so much respect for how you both have lived out your faith with all that know you. Prayers will continue for you, Jodi, Kirsten and the grans.
Thank you Mister for always being such a true gentleman to my Pat, my bestie from college. I’ve never seen two people more in love, from day one to the very last one. You will always hold a special place in our hearts as we try our best to journey on without you.
We will see you again..Susie and Tommy
I never met a better man and friend. You live on in my memories of you and the family.
Prayers for the family.
Dear Pat, Jodi & Family:
Words can’t express the sorrow we feel at this time of loss. May our Lord bless you and keep you and bring you peace. Sending blessings & love, Lorraine
So very sorry to lose Bill. He was a gentleman - kind and sincere. My prayers and love go out to Pat and his family.
Prayers for family
Pat and Jodi we are very saddened to hear of Bill's passing yet rejoice that Bill is home with his heavenly Father. He will be deeply missed. Had it not been for Bill, I would have not started my journey in full time ministry after leaving Carlton Bates after 10 years of service. Praying for you and the family. Love you. The Walden's
A great Man and inspiration to many.
Class of 67 loss of another Class Mate.
God bless Pat.
Amen
So very sorry to hear of Bills passing. Thoughts and prayers to Pat and family. May God give you all peace and comfort and heart healing.
We’re so so for your loss. Bill will be so missed.
I was truly blessed to have Bill in my life. I worked for him for almost fourteen years. I told him when I retired that I never had a day when I did not want to go to work. That was due to the work environment he created.
He was always kind, generous and professional. I always had great respect for him. He will definitely be missed.
Pat, my sincerest condolences in learning of Bill's passing. Always hold onto the warm and wonderful memories you shared together and I pray they will continue to bring you comfort and peace. My prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.
Absolutely the most down to earth accomplished gentleman I have ever worked for. It was an honor to work for him as well as Joe. A wonderful family. They have left quite the legacy.
I am so saddened to hear of Bill’s death. He was such a wonderful man and I will always be grateful for how he supported and mentored me in my career. He was admirable with his love for his wife and family. He was a wonderful friend.
I was sorry to hear of Bill's passing. It was a pleasure getting to know Bill and to work with him. His strong Christian faith, high standards and code of conduct were an inspiration and role model for many. He was both empathetic and humble--always willing to listen and to be of service. His contributions and good deeds are many (though he was private and never boasted about them). Rest in peace, Bill Carlton. You will be missed!
Bill was an amazing man and will be greatly missed! We are praying for your family
So sorry to hear of Bill passing.
Rest in peace my friend. You were always a great human being. God Bless!
I am so sorry to hear of Bill's passing. He was always a gentleman and someone everyone looked up to. My thoughts and prayers are with you and family. Ruth