Thomas "Carroll" Clements

Thomas Carroll Clements Sr., 88, of La Plata, Maryland, passed away peacefully at his home on February 20, 2026.

Carroll was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose kindness and generosity knew no bounds. He was looking forward to celebrating his 60th wedding anniversary later this year with his loving wife, Charlotte Clements. He was affectionately known within the family as “Honey” a term of endearment that reflected his gentle and sweet nature.

Born in Newport on January 9, 1938, Carroll was the son of the late William Noble Clements, Sr. and Christine Evelyn Mudd Clements. He grew up on the family farm in Newport and was a proud graduate of the La Plata High School Class of 1956. A testament to his dedication to family and craftsmanship, Carroll was a long-time resident of La Plata and resided in the very home that he, his father, and his brother helped build together.

Following graduation, Carroll answered the call to serve by joining the Air National Guard. From 1956 to 1962, he served as a member of the 113th Tactical Fighter Wing stationed at Andrews Air Force Base. Carroll’s professional life was defined by hard work. He dedicated 30 years to the Mid-Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Plant in La Plata, beginning as a route salesman in 1963 and retiring as a route supervisor in 1993. Unwilling to sit still, he spent the next 12 years managing Laurel Springs Park for the Charles County Government. He was widely respected for his patience, dedication, and a work ethic that served as an example to all who worked alongside him.

A lifelong Catholic, Carroll’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. He was a devoted parishioner of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, where he volunteered countless hours. He was a father who led with love and was very proud of his children. He was deeply active in their young lives by volunteering his time with their Skyrockets 4-H club and sports teams. Carroll was their constant source of encouragement, always making sure they knew he was their greatest advocate as they became adults. He continued this legacy throughout his later years as his grandchildren’s biggest supporter, never missing an opportunity to celebrate their milestones.

Carroll was a true "jack of all trades." Whether he was fishing, tending to his garden, or working in his woodshop, he found joy in the outdoors and in the satisfaction of a job well done. He was the first person family, neighbors, and friends called when something needed fixing, and he was always ready to lend a helping hand.

In addition to his wife Charlotte, he is survived by his children, Thomas Clements Jr. (Kathy) and Carolyn McVay (Chris). He was the proud grandfather of Lauren Bennett (Dallas), Nicole McVay, Abbey Clements, and Kyle McVay; and great-grandfather to Ellie and Leyna Bennett.

He is also survived by his brother, Edward Clements (Joyce), and his sister-in-law, Audrey Clements. A steady presence and source of constant support, Carroll cherished his immediate and extended family, offering love and friendship to a large group of nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors who were like family to him. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings: Evelyn Doris Brooks, William Noble Clements, Jr., Joseph Allison Clements, and Leonard J. Clements.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at Arehart-Echols Funeral Home from 2PM to 6PM, with a prayer service at 5PM.  A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, March 2, 2026, at 10AM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, LaPlata; Interment to follow at Saint Marys Catholic Church Cemetery, Newport.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made Sacred Heart Catholic Church, LaPlata.

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