Dr. Robert Austin Carlton

Robert was born on April 30, 1927 to Albert M. Carlton, a Lawyer, and his entrepreneurial wife, Lidie Mann Carlton. He lived an idyllic childhood and youth in his beloved town of Brownsville, Tennessee, surrounded by a loving family and friends. Robert graduated from Haywood County High School and immediately enlisted in the U.S. Navy to serve his country during World War II. He loved to tell us that when he entered the Navy, the Germans found out and surrendered. When he graduated from boot camp, he said the Japanese found out and surrendered. Robert was a graduate of Lambuth College, where he met Dorothy Jean Lyles. They were married on August 20, 1950. Robert continued his studies and earned his Doctoral Degree in Zoology from Auburn University. While pursuing his studies he encouraged Dorothy Jean to also pursue an advanced degree. With his support, she obtained her Master of Library Science Degree from Auburn University. He served as the head of the Biology Department at Lambuth College until his retirement in 1991. He received the Luther L. Gobbell Award for outstanding faculty member in 1983. He was a gifted instructor, and many of his former students still talk about his positive impact on their lives. His exceptional teaching and guidance helped many students become medical doctors, dentists, veterinarians, scientists, and teachers. He was a devoted husband, father, friend, and church member. He loved his church, Forest Heights United Methodist Church, and more than anything he loved his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

He traveled extensively and shared many memories of his wonderful experiences in Europe and Africa with his family and friends. He was an avid reader, and we estimate that, over his lifetime he read over 20,000 books. He was a planner and a goal-setter. Just two weeks ago, he outlined a 10-bullet point plan for how he could continue to live independently and drive in a very limited area. His plan was so concise and convincing, we could only agree it was a good strategy.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy Jean and his daughter Martha Peavyhouse.

After mourning the loss of Dorothy Jean, a few years later he was serendipitously reunited with his high school sweetheart, May Jean Beasley. They married and had many years of happiness until her passing in 2008.

He is survived by his sons, Bob Carlton, and Dr. David Carlton (Melanie), his grandchildren, Brooks, Miles, and Will Peavyhouse, Ben Carlton (Tylynn), Kate Richardson, and his great grandchildren, Camden Mayo, Hudson and Landon Richardson, and Jack Garside. He also leaves behind a very special friend, Mavis Johnson, who gave him great joy as they spent many fun days together.

Robert (Paw Paw) will be missed, not just by his family, but by the world, because he was a light. He was bright, articulate, kind, gentle, inquisitive, and loving. Heaven is a better place because he is there now.

A visitation with friends and loved ones for Dr. Robert will be held Tuesday, September 7, 2021 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, at Forest Heights United Methodist Church, 863 West Forest Ave., Jackson, Tennessee 38301, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM, with Pastor Drew Brewer officiating.

Pallbearers are Paul Finney, Randy Wallace, Dr. Jimmy Hoppers, Bob Bond, Bill Wyatt, and David Thomas.

In lieu of flowers, Robert would have wanted you to continue to give to the charity you choose.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.GeorgeASmithandSons.com for the Carlton family.