William "Bill" Mack Carmichael

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Bill Carmichael, a devoted husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, great-grandfather, pastor, retired Army chaplain, and Iraq War veteran. Bill departed this life late Wednesday, December 4th at the age of 84, surrounded by loved ones.

Born on October 10th, 1940, in Jacksonville, Florida, Bill lived a life devoted to faith, family, and service. After answering the call to ministry, he dedicated his life to shepherding congregations, fellow soldiers, and supporting countless individuals on their spiritual journeys. His unwavering compassion, wisdom, and love for the Lord left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered.

Bill served his country with honor as a chaplain in the United States Army, providing solace and guidance to soldiers during some of their most challenging moments. His tour of duty included service in Desert Storm and exemplified his commitment to serving others, even in the face of danger. After decades of military service, he retired with the rank of Lt. Colonel, carrying with him the deep respect and admiration of his peers.

At the heart of Bill's life was his family. A loving husband to Wanda, he cherished their 31 years together, building a home filled with love and laughter. As a father and stepfather, he provided unwavering support and guidance to his children: Kyn Logan, Scott Carmichael, Tommy Carmichael, Alex Harrison and Angie Thompson. His pride in his grandchildren and great-granddaughter was evident in every story he told and every hug he shared. A Bible reading of the Christmas story by the grandchildren is a tradition at every “Carmichael Christmas” celebration.

Bill will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his warm smile, and his ability to bring comfort and hope to all who crossed his path. His passions included music (piano), boating, golf, ice cream at the Nibble Nook, tinkering on the farm in Live Oak, his DBC Sunday School family, and the Florida Gators. Bill’s legacy of service and love will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

He is survived by Wanda Carmichael, his children Kyn Logan (David), Scott Carmichael (Cynthia), Tommy Carmichael (Mona), Alex Harrison (Kami), and Angie Thompson (Denny), his grandchildren Cory Ingram, Carly Cains (Richy), Olivia Schilling, Jasmine Starling (Skylar), Kinley Harrison, Dallas Thompson, Maguire Harrison, Jeffrey Carmichael, Walker Thompson, James Carmichael, his great-granddaughter Delaney Ingram, and a host of extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his father William M. Carmichael, mother Mildred Scott Carmichael, and brother Ralph Douglas “Doug” Carmichael.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 10th from 4:00 – 7:00pm at Hardage Giddens Mandarin. A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on December 11th at 11:00am, at Deermeadows Baptist Church, with a visitation an hour before the service. Burial with full military honors will follow at the Jacksonville National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Samaritan's Purse or the Alzheimer’s Association, organizations close to Bill’s heart.

“Be happy with those who are happy, weep with those who weep. Have the same concern for everyone. Do not be proud, but accept humble duties. Do not think of yourself as wise.” Romans 12:15-16 GNT

Our loss is great, but God is greater. May he rest in eternal peace.