William “Bill” Joseph Carie, 86, went home to his Lord and Savior on February 20, 2026 — exactly one month after the passing of his beloved wife, Judith “Lynn” Carie — gently reminding his family that the Lord’s timing is perfect and His plans are always unfolding, even when we cannot yet see them. Bill was born on May 24, 1939, to Walter “Chuck” and Mary Jane Carie of Vincennes, the second of three children. A 1957 graduate of Central Catholic High School, Bill never missed the chance to share one of his favorite memories — defeating the Lincoln Alices in basketball his senior year. That victory remained a point of pride and a story told with a familiar smile. His years at Central Catholic instilled in him the enduring values of faith, discipline, and hard work that would shape his character and guide his life for decades to come.
He began his working life after high school at Standard Oil and Sinclair gas stations before being drafted to serve his country in the United States Army. Bill proudly served in the 37th Armor at Fort Knox for two years of active duty, including six months training cadets at West Point — an experience he carried with humility and pride. After four years in the Reserves, he was honorably discharged in December 1967. On July 5, 1969 — a day remembered by many as one of the hottest on record — Bill married Judith “Lynn” Hinkle of Monroe City. What began on that sweltering summer day blossomed into a lifelong partnership marked by devotion, laughter, faith, and unwavering love. Together they built a home where family was everything. Their lives were richly blessed with three sons — CJ, Anthony, and Gabriel — and Lynn’s niece, Pat, who was cherished and loved as a daughter in every way that mattered. Bill was widely known and deeply respected throughout the local agricultural community. To the farmers he served, he was far more than a manager — he was a trusted friend. He began his career at Midwest Fertilizer, eventually becoming manager, and later led CFS and Knox County Co-Op, later known as Growers Co-Op. Over 45 years of dedicated service, Bill built more than a career; he built relationships grounded in integrity. His employees often said he was the best boss they ever had — not because he demanded excellence, but because he modeled it. Bill believed leadership meant rolling up your sleeves, working alongside others, and letting strong morals guide every decision.
In his younger years, Bill could often be found on the softball field in the Petersburg league, a bat in hand and a grin on his face. His love for sports became a gift he passed on to his sons. He coached at South Knox Little League for years and rarely missed a game. Whether in the stands or the dugout, Bill was steady, proud, and wholeheartedly present. The strong foundation of Bill’s life was his Catholic faith. He loved singing in the St. John’s Choir — especially at Midnight Mass on Christmas and during the Easter Vigil, where his voice rose joyfully in praise. He faithfully served at church picnics, happily dishing out fricassee with the same warmth he brought to every gathering. In 2008, Bill and Lynn’s devotion to the Church was formally recognized by the Catholic Diocese of Evansville when they were admitted into the Bruté Society, honoring their exceptional commitment to Christian stewardship and service. Retirement did not slow Bill down. He found great joy helping his son CJ with his mowing business — a task he genuinely loved. Those who knew Bill smile when they think of his dedication to mowing and pressure washing, his steady presence at South Knox basketball games, and the unmistakable pride in his eyes as he cheered on his grandchildren in all their pursuits. Supporting his family was never a duty to Bill — it was his greatest joy. In the final months of his life — and especially after the passing of his beloved Lynn in January — Bill’s faith never wavered. Even in grief, he remained steady, often reminding his family that “the Good Lord has a plan; we just need to listen and trust Him. ” Those words, spoken with quiet conviction, became both comfort and anchor during an unimaginably tender season.
The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of prayers, calls, and acts of kindness shown over these past months. In the midst of sorrow, there is profound peace in knowing that Bill and Lynn are reunited at last — side by side once more, now resting in the eternal love of the Lord they served so faithfully. Bill is survived by his sons CJ (Melinda) Carie, Anthony (Nichole) Carie, and Gabriel (Candice) Carie; niece Pat (Dennis) Carnahan; grandchildren William Carie, Eli Carie, Lauren Carie, Gretchen Carie, Grace Carie, Nora Lynn Carie, Anthony Gonterman, Jasmine Gonterman and Brooklyn Walburn; brother Paul (Robbie) Carie; nephews Brian (Camilla) Bilskie, Mark Carie, Randy (Becky) Carie; nieces Sandy (Henry) DeBusseriet, Debbie (Jim) Swain, Linda (Eric) Lane, Dana Carie; great-nephews John (Ashley) Carnahan and Ben (Kierstin) Carnahan; sister-in-law Mary Bratton; and many other nieces and nephews who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.
Bill was also preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Carolyn Bilskie; brother-in-law, Ritchie Hinkle; sisters-in-law, Patty Martin and Madge Brocksmith; and great-nephew, Philip Carnahan. A joint visitation for Bill and Lynn will be held on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at St. John’s Catholic Church, with a rosary service at 3:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial for both will be celebrated on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. John’s Catholic Church, with Father Gary Kaiser, Father Don Ackerman, and Father Tony Ernst officiating. Bill and Lynn will be laid to rest together at Mt. Calvary Cemetery — reunited in eternal peace. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the South Knox Education Foundation or the St. Francis Xavier Building Fund. Online condolences may be shared at www.fredrickandson.com. Fredrick and Son McClure-Utt Funeral Home, Vincennes Chapel, is honored to serve the Carie family.
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