Carroll Wayne LaRue, 78, of Little Rock, Arkansas, gained his angel wings on Friday, April 24, 2026. Wayne was born in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, on July 19, 1947, to Raymond and Ruby LaRue, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his six brothers and three sisters.

Wayne graduated from Wasco High School in California, where he ran track and won many medals. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Wayne served as a radio operator with Company A, 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, known as the “Big Red One.” During his tour, he saw many battles. The book We Were Soldiers recounts some of the battles in which he fought. It was his honor to serve his country, though he carried with him the sorrow that, while he made it home, some of his fellow soldiers did not.

Wayne loved fishing and cherished time spent with his children and grandchildren. He delivered medications for The Drug Store for over 30 years, where he truly enjoyed his work and the many relationships he built while serving customers in their homes. He was a loving and kind man who never met a stranger.

Wayne is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Karen LaRue of Little Rock, Arkansas; his daughters, Laura Patton (Jeff) of Bryant and Sandra Honeysuckle (Thomas) of Little Rock; and his son, Larry LaRue (Tara) of Mabelvale. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Cody Wallace (Lexi), Devin Patton (Andrea), Isaac Garza (Yalitza), Sam Willis (Victoria), Zach Meredith, Darien Patton (Shae), Marisa Honeysuckle (Ryan), Tyler LaRue (Hannah), and Emily Ward (Kolton); and two great-granddaughters, Sayler LaRue and Maelynn McTigrit.

He is further survived by his sister, Judy Bishop (Bobby) of Wright City, Oklahoma; several nieces and nephews; and his special sidekick, his dog Lucy.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” ‭‭Joshua‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Celebration of life will be Thursday, May 7,2026 at 10:00 A.M at Indian Springs Baptist Church with visitation being held the night prior from 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home.