Jack Carson

CHARLESTON, Mo. -- John Howlett "Jack" Carson, 79, of Naples, Fla., formerly of Charleston, died at 10 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2002, at Encore Senior Village in Naples.

Born March 10, 1923, in Charleston, to Ralph and Geraldine Howlett Carson, he lived in Charleston and vicinity most of his life.

Jack's professional life revolved around the agricultural chemical business. In 1948 he began his career with his father, who founded Ralph Carson Co. Jack was later employed by Riverside Chemical Co., Terra International, and Delta Grower's Association.

In 1989 he founded Carson Chemical Co., which he managed until his retirement in 1995.

Jack served proudly and with distinction as lieutenant junior grade in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

He attended Westminster College in Fulton, Mo., and graduated from the University of Missouri with a bachelor of science degree in agriculture.

Jack was active in the Housing Authority of Charleston, Missouri Chapter of the Society of Crippled Children, and the Kiwanis clubs of Charleston, Mo., and Germantown, Tenn.

His awards included being the recipient of the University of Missouri Extension Distinguished Service Award; Sikeston, Mo., Chamber of Commerce Agricultural Leadership Award; and honorary lifetime membership in Missouri Ag Industries Council.

Jack was active in the United Methodist Church in Charleston and Germantown. He also enjoyed playing golf and cards with his lifelong friends.

On Aug. 31, 1947, he married Louise Edwards, who survives.

Also surviving are his children, Jon Carson of Tucson, Ariz., Jed and Dorothy Carson of Marietta, Ga., Julie Carson of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; a granddaughter, Sarah Carson of Marietta; and several nieces and nephews.

A sister, Emma Lee Baker, preceded him in death.

Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday at McMikle Funeral Home in Charleston.

The funeral will be conducted at 2 p.m. Sunday in the funeral home chapel, with Glenn Ault of Charleston officiating. Julie Carson will serve as eulogist. Interment will be in IOOF Cemetery, with Missouri Military Honor Guard conducting military graveside rites.

Pallbearers will be John Klueppel, Wendell Choate, Byron Moxley, Ed Marshall Jr., Marion Waggener and Bill Branum.

Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer's Support Network, 660 Tamiami Trail N., Suite 21, Naples, Fla., 34102.