Max M. Carroll, Jr., 78, of Shelby, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 25, 2026.

A lifelong learner, Max earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Florida State University and a master's degree in Human Development and Learning from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. For more than 30 years, he devoted his career to education and public service, first as a classroom teacher and later with the North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services, where he continued his commitment to helping others learn and grow.

Max was an avid reader who especially enjoyed spending time at the Shelby library. He had a deep appreciation for history, with a particular interest in the Civil War era, and a lifelong passion for uncovering, preserving, and sharing his family's genealogy. He enjoyed tracing family roots, preserving the stories of past generations, and ensuring they would be passed on to those who came after him.

Music was another of Max's great passions. He especially loved the psychedelic rock of the late 1960s and 1970s, music that never failed to bring him joy. He also found great satisfaction in cooking, rarely following a recipe and instead relying on instinct to prepare meals.

Known for his quiet strength and gentle nature, Max accepted life as it came, meeting both its joys and its challenges with grace and without complaint. He treasured meaningful conversations and found joy in life's simple pleasures. His steady presence, humility, and quiet kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy; his children, Amy and Josh; his grandchildren, Zachary, Sylas, Ella, Escher, Brayden, Xavier, and Aisley; and his brothers, Tom and Pat.

Max will be remembered for his humble spirit, enduring curiosity, and lifelong love of learning. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the stories he shared, and the family and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

To celebrate the life of Max, a visitation will be held at Cecil M. Burton Funeral H0me Friday, August 7, 2026 from 6:00PM - 7:30 PM.

Online condolences can be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com.

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family.