In Memoriam: Carl Carnahan 1927 - 2010

Longtime Friends member and volunteer extraordinaire, Carl Carnahan, passed away in June 2010 after a long battle with heart and lung disease. He was laid to rest in Georgia Memorial Park Cemetery in Marietta. His son and daughter-in-law, George and Alice Carnahan, a granddaughter and her husband, a brother, and numerous nieces and nephews survive him.

In a fascinating life spanning 83 years, Carl saw action in WWII in the U.S. Navy and was part of an official party sent out to search for the downed pioneer female aviator, Amelia Earhart. During the Korean Conflict, Carl again heeded the call from his country, this time serving in the U. S. Army. Carl had a special soft spot in his heart for people (especially the hungry) and animals in need. One story tells of Carl traveling through the mountains of eastern Kentucky during his work rounds and noticing many, many dogs without shelter. Carl went home and began building—doghouses.

On subsequent trips out, often he’d “just happen to have this doghouse in the truck,” and his offer of it to the dog’s owner was never refused. Some 50 dogs kept warm and dry in a Carnahan Special doghouse. He was also known to put out food and water for “poor cats and dogs” anywhere he saw the need.

Carl served both his community and his church, Smyrna Christian Church. His work with Friends of Smyrna Library brought him into the Library almost daily, where he organized and maintained the Book and Magazine Sales section.

Carl was named FoSL Volunteer of the Year for 2006-2007 for his unstinting dedication of some 200-300 hours per year for the previous seven years. A bronze plaque has been created and will be placed in the Book Sales area of the Library by Friends of Smyrna Library in Carl’s memory, honoring his long and steadfast service.