Visitation

Feb. 8, 2025
11 a.m. - noon

Service

Feb. 8, 2025
noon

Committal

Feb. 9, 2025
1 p.m.

Troy Lee Carriker was born in 1931, a true groundbreaker from the start—the first in his family to attend college, setting a path of perseverance and dedication that would define his life.

He went on to serve his country with honor in the Air Force during the Korean War while stationed in Germany for the occupation. He carried that sense of discipline and integrity with him throughout his life.

Dad was a man of simple pleasures and deep joys. He smoked a pipe and savored his bourbon, always appreciating the good things in life. But perhaps nothing brought him more peace than the Core Banks, where he cast his fishing line into the water and found serenity in the rhythm of the waves.

His garden was his masterpiece. No one grew better tomatoes or cucumbers, and he took great pride in canning and freezing fresh food. Blackberry jelly, biscuits and gravy, pickled beets, fig preserves, and cornbread with buttermilk–These were the flavors of our childhood, the tastes of his love.

Dad had his quirks—he was right-handed but played golf as a leftie, always with peanuts in his pocket, leaving a trail of shells on the course alongside his buddies during their cherished Saturday morning rounds. He never once bought a new car, and the old ones? Well, they just stuck around, just like his steadfast values of honesty, fairness, and acceptance.

He found joy in the little things: watching the birds, squirrels, and rabbits in the yard, eating banana pudding, ice cream (always a yes!), and making peanut brittle. Above all, expressing his gratitude and love for his children—Tyra Lindell, Lynn Carriker, and Kristi Carriker—every single day. From him, we learned persistence, compassion, resilience, and the importance of curiosity and hard work.

Dad passed peacefully with family by his side, leaving behind a legacy of love and strength.

Our family extends heartfelt thanks to his in-home caregivers, Amorem professional staff and veteran's support staff for the care they provided to our father and family during this time.

A Celebration of Life will take place on February 8, 2025, at the Morganton Community House. Friends are invited to gather from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by the service from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. A graveside service will be held on February 9, 2025, at 1:00 PM at New London Cemetery in New London, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina (https://secure.qgiv.com/for/foothillsconservancyofnorthcarolina), Mountain View Elementary School, or Oak Hill Elementary School (BCPS, PO 989, Morganton, NC 28680). These organizations reflect the deep love Mom and Dad had for the Morganton community, where they lived for over 50 years. They cherished the beauty of this area and were passionate about supporting children and families in need. Mom taught at Oak Hill, and I (their daughter) attended Mountain View. Contributions will help provide essential resources for children in need—causes that were especially meaningful to them.

Dad, you were our rock, our teacher, our greatest supporter. We love you beyond words and will carry you with us always.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Tribute Wall

Leave a tribute for Troy Lee Carriker.

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Lynn and Bobbie, So very sorry for your loss. We never had the honor of meeting you dad but got to hear the stories of you fishing trips together. Praying. For strength through this difficult time. God bless you and your family.

—Don & Linda Lanning

Tyra and Family, just wanted to say I am praying for all of you. Reflect and share your memories at this sad time. May God bring you comfort.

—Debra Fleming

Fred and I lived across the street from your dear father. We loved him and treasured his friendship. Many times he shared produce from that precious small garden where everything he touched grew magnificently. Know that your family is in my thoughts and prayers. Many Gods love comfort and support you during these sad times. In Christian love, Margaret Miller

—Margaret Miller
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—Anonymous
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Lynn, Bobbie and family I was so sorry to hear about Mr Troy. Always looked forward to seeing him when he was in Greensboro and we would all meet at Country Barbecue. You are in my thoughts and prayers

—Teressa Williams
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—Anonymous

Troy Carriker I am honored an blessed to have known you and call you my friend. Your one of my favorite customers I had at Allison's Family Restaurant for almost 20 years. You were so sweet and funny and we shared so many stories and always shared your delicious tomatoes with me. My prayers and love are with you Kristi and your family and may God comfort and heal your broken heart during this time. I love you Troy. Thank you for your kindness and generosity over the last 20 years. RIP until we see each other again... Pat Gallion

—Patti Gallion

Kristi and family, so sorry for your loss. Your Dad was one of the best.

—jim belote