Carl Clayton Campbell, Jr.

Carl Clayton Campbell, Jr., age 81, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2026, at Womack Army Medical Center in Fort Bragg, surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 29, 1944, at Myrtle Beach Army Field in South Carolina. He joins his father, Carl Clayton Campbell, Sr., and mother, Lulu Mae Buchheit, in eternal rest.

A proud veteran, Carl served his country with extraordinary dedication in the United States Army for three years, where he distinguished himself with time in the 82nd Airborne and Special Forces. His sense of service and patriotism shone brightly throughout his life, including his notable career as a Fayetteville City Policeman for fifteen years. A highlight of his law enforcement journey was assisting the Secret Service during President Carter's visit to Fayetteville in 1983. Following his tenure in law enforcement, he transitioned to a successful career at Xerox, dedicating over twenty years as a Senior Customer Service Engineer.

Carl was not just defined by his considerable professional achievements; he was a people person who never met a stranger. He was always ready to lend an ear or a helping hand, embodying an unconditional spirit of compassion. His enduring love extended to his campanion, friends, and animals alike. With a heart full of affection, he doted on his fur babies, Sophie and Muffin, who will not forget the warmth he brought into their lives.

Deeply committed to his faith in God, Carl served his community in various capacities, including three medical mission trips to Venezuela and as the Brotherhood Director at Village Baptist Church. He found immense joy in engaging with others, notably serving as the North Carolina State Director for Miss Teen America and judging the Miss North Carolina pageant. Carl actively participated in organizations dedicated to personal and communal growth, including Toastmasters, where he earned accolades such as the Distinguished Toastmaster Award and served as Governor of Toastmasters International in 1999.

Carl's life was vibrant with diverse interests. He was a North Carolina certified beekeeper, cherished his garden which he affectionately called "God’s garden," and was an innovative spirit who held two patents. His commitment to lifelong learning and sharing his knowledge with others is a testament to his character.

In addition to his impressive accomplishments, Carl was a devoted husband. He shared a loving marriage with Louise Campbell for 25 years, supporting and comforting her through her lengthy illness. Following her passing, he beautifully embraced a new chapter in his life with Helen Vile. The two found joy in each other's company, traveling, and spending time with friends and family; her family quickly became his own. Carl often expressed how blessed he felt to have Helen in his life, and she reciprocated those sentiments with equal affection.

Carl is survived by loving friends and family who will carry his memory in their hearts. He is survived by his two children, Carl Clayton Campbell III (Angela), Sherri Campbell Pait (Larry); grandchildren, Jenna Campbell, Jessy Campbell, Katlin Lee (Brandon), Ashley Pait; great grandchildren, Grace Lee and Kingstyn Pait ;brother, Larry D. Campbell and cousins, Vince Campbell, Vicky Young and Jack Campbell.

He is also survived by his companion Helen Vile and her family Laura Schimmer (Erik), William Vile (Jenette), Micheal Vile (Heather) their children Craig Schimmer (Stephanie), Erika Niolet (Jackson), Mark Schimmer (Sarah; grandchildren, Madeline Schimmer, Clara Schimmer, Abigail Schimmer, Andrew Schimmer, Shelby Vile, Zack Vile, Ayden Vile, Parker Vile.

A visitation will take place on February 9, 2026, from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Sullivan's Highland Funeral Service in Fayetteville, NC, followed by a memorial service until 1:30 PM. He will be laid to rest at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery at 2:00 PM that same day.

Reflecting on his life, Carl once humorously listed "Going to Heaven when the time comes" as the final item on his resume. It is with profound love and remembrance that we gather together to celebrate the remarkable journey of a man whose heart and actions touched so many lives. Carl Clayton Campbell, Jr. will be forever honored and remembered.