July 9, 2022, 80, La Grange –
William Carroll Cruse, Sr., 80, peacefully passed away on July 9, 2022 while surrounded by the love of his family in the comfort of his own home. Carroll was born in Wayne County on August 3, 1941 to the late Poni Bill and Annie Lee Corbett Cruse. In addition to his parents, Carroll was preceded in death by his wife of nearly 57 years, Marjorie Bazemore Cruse; and grandchildren, Michele Strickland, Ryan Cruse, and Travis Foyles.
A lifelong hard worker, Carroll spent most of his years farming. Whether cows, pigs, or turkeys, Carroll knew how to tend to livestock. Working most days from the break of dawn until late in the evening, Carroll strived to provide the best for his family. In later years, he began working in the maintenance department for Duplin County Schools.
With a tremendous love for his family, Carroll took great pride in his titles of husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather. He was the best dad anyone could ask for, not only to his own children but for many others who found a home with him and Marjorie. Children who needed a place to call their own were welcomed for as long as they wished—some for months, many for years.
In his spare time, Carroll appreciated time on the water fishing or attending auctions to find the perfect items. Possessing a great skill at trading and bartering, Carroll was able to collect many treasures throughout his lifetime. Amongst his favorite items to collect were knives and clocks.
Nothing pleased Carroll more than a good meal, especially when enjoyed with friends and family. Whether meeting with folks at Food Lion or Bojangles, he looked forward to every chance to sit around the table with friends. Trips to eat breakfast with his family were treasured moments, and nothing suited his tastebuds more than tacos. Any time his family traveled to Goldsboro, he looked forward to their return with tacos in hand.
Dedicated to his faith, Carroll was a Deacon at Daly’s Chapel Original Free Will Baptist Church where he loved worshiping his Lord through song. Along with his wife, Marjorie, the two enjoyed spreading the gospel and cheer by making trips to Spring Arbor where they’d sing for the residents. Old-time gospel music was his favorite, and no song was more beautiful to him than “On the Wings of a Snow-white Dove”.
A service to celebrate Carroll’s life will be held Wednesday, July 13, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at Daly’s Chapel Original Free Will Baptist Church in La Grange. Committal will follow in the church cemetery.
Carrol is survived by his five children, William Carroll Cruse Jr. and fiancée, Tina Croom, Beth Foyles and husband, Dennis, James Cruse and wife, Renea, Lynn Goff and husband, Kenny, Robert Cruse and wife, Barbara; 14 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren plus one on the way.
The family will receive friends for a time of visitation on Tuesday, July 12, 2022 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Rouse Funeral Home. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
