Major Woodrow Raymond Carco, U.S. Air Force Ret.

Major Woodrow R. Carco, U.S. Air Force Ret.

GULFPORT, MS - Major Woodrow R. Carco, U.S. Air Force Ret., passed away on Sunday, August 27, 2023, at Memorial Hospital of Gulfport at the age of 83. He was a native of Pass Christian and a longtime resident of Gulfport.

Born on May 16, 1940, in Mississippi, Major Carco dedicated his life to serving his country. He bravely enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and embarked on a distinguished military career that spanned over two decades. Major Carco served as a Navigator and attained the esteemed rank of Major before retiring honorably. His unwavering commitment to duty and remarkable service earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and superiors alike.

During his military service, Major Carco demonstrated exemplary courage and dedication while serving in Vietnam. As a Vietnam Veteran, he displayed immense strength in the face of adversity and made substantial contributions to his unit and the country he loved.

Beyond his military career, Major Carco had numerous hobbies and interests that brought joy to his life. He cherished spending time with his family and enjoyed playing golf with his brother-in-law. Card games with his sisters filled many evenings with laughter and camaraderie. Soft-shell crabbing outings with his sons created lasting memories that they will forever hold dear.

Major Woodrow Raymond Carco was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan Carco; their son, Lane Carco; his parents, Joseph and Viola Carco; his sister, Etta Humphreys; as well as his mother-in-law, Carmen Hastings.

He is survived by his loving son Jon Carco and daughter-in-law Angela of Gulfport. Additionally, he leaves behind cherished grandchildren: Ashley Faul of Gulfport, Robert Clements of Pensacola, FL, and Laurel Carco of Roseville, CA. Major Carco also leaves behind his dear siblings: Betty Jo Bishop and her husband Robert of Long Beach, Frona Bearden and her husband Don of Long Beach, and Vivian Doherty of Jacksonville, FL.

A Celebration of Life Mass will be held to honor the memory of Major Woodrow Raymond Carco at 11:00 a.m. on September 5, 2023, at St. Mark's Episcopal Church located at 11322 E Taylor Rd, Gulfport MS 39503. Family and friends are invited to attend and pay their respects.

Major Carco's unwavering dedication to his country and his family leaves behind an indelible legacy. He will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him as a brave defender of freedom, a devoted family man, and a true inspiration. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known him.

Arrangements are under the direction of Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport. Please join us in remembering and celebrating the life of Major Woodrow R. Carco by visiting www.riemannfamily.com to share your memories, leave messages for the family, or light a candle in his honor.