Carrel Clemmons

Carrel Glenn Clemmons, Jr., affectionately known to his family as “Junior,” passed away peacefully on May 25, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on March 1, 1943, in the rolling hills of southwestern Kentucky, Junior grew up surrounded by the beauty of caves, lakes, and farmland—an environment that nurtured his lifelong love of nature and exploration. A man of quiet strength and deep integrity, Carrel dedicated his life to service. He served his country with distinction in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, a chapter of his life that further shaped his discipline and sense of duty. After his military service, Carrel began a 36-year career as a forensic chemist with the Department of Defense. As Chief of Drug Chemistry at the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Laboratory, he was a respected leader in his field, known not only for his expertise but for his mentorship and humility. It was at the lab that he met the love of his life, Carol Melton Clemmons. Their partnership—built on deep respect, laughter, and unwavering support—spanned 46 devoted years of marriage. Carrel found joy in life’s simple and profound pleasures: the rhythm of a good book, the hush of a forest trail, the rush of a race. An avid reader and outdoorsman, he could often be found participating in marathons and 5K races, hiking mountain paths, pitching tents under starry skies, traveling to places near and far, or meandering through museums around the globe. His love for the natural world was matched only by his love for people—especially his family. To those who knew him, Carrel was more than accomplished—he was kind, gentle, curious, and deeply present. He was a devoted husband, a nurturing father, and a proud grandfather whose face would light up in the presence of his grandchildren. He had a way of making everyone feel seen, heard, and loved. Carrel is preceded in death by his parents, Carrel Glenn Clemmons, Sr., and Dollie Ree Dyer Clemmons; his brother, James Clemmons; and his son-in-law, Mark Curlee. He is survived by his beloved wife, Carol Melton Clemmons; his children: Candise Curlee, Jennifer McCarren and her husband Matt, and Michael Clemmons and his wife Elizabeth; and his treasured grandchildren: Matthew Curlee, Walker McCarren, Livia McCarren, and Theodore Clemmons. He is also survived by his brother, Tony Clemmons, and sister-in-law Jackie; his sister-in-law Diane Clemmons; and many dear friends and extended family members who were touched by his grace and generosity. Carrel Glenn Clemmons, Jr., lived a life rich in purpose, love, and wonder. His legacy is one of steadfast devotion—to his work, his country, and most of all, to his family. He will be missed deeply, remembered fondly, and honored always. A funeral mass will be held Wednesday, June 4, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Philip Benizi Catholic Church, 591 Flint River Rd, Jonesboro, GA 30238. Interment will be at Georgia National Cemetery at 2:30 p.m. To honor Carrel’s life and legacy, the family kindly invites memorial contributions to two organizations that reflect the courage and compassion with which he lived: Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) www.pancan.org, dedicated to advancing research, supporting patients, and improving outcomes in the fight against pancreatic cancer or Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org, leading the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementias through research, care, and advocacy.

Carrel Clemmons

March 1, 1943 - May 25, 2025