Saltville, Virginia

Carroll Cardwell McGhee, age 85, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, June 25, 2026.

Carroll was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose personality was simply unforgettable. She was one of a kind and never hesitated to speak exactly what was on her mind, whether it hurt your feelings or not and if you asked for her opinion, you were going to get it. She was especially particular about her hair. It had to be just right, and nobody was allowed to touch it. If even one hair was out of place, it was straight to the beauty salon. Carroll also had a love for fashion and shopping. She had an incredible eye for detail and could tell you exactly what you were wearing from head to toe. When she wasn't shopping in person, you could usually find her watching Polka Party. Carroll loved to laugh, joke, and have a good time. One thing she never quite mastered, however, was driving. Whether it was a little fender bender or getting stuck on a wall, Carroll would always try to convince everyone it was Marcus’ fault. Somehow, no matter what happened behind the wheel, Marcus always ended up taking the blame. She also had a talent for whispering or at least she thought she did. In reality, everyone within earshot knew exactly what she was trying to keep quiet. She loved listening to music, especially Daniel O'Donnell, Steve Warren, and Ray Wolford. Before dementia began to steal pieces of her memory, Carroll had what her family lovingly called "selective hearing" and an even more selective memory. Many evenings were spent sitting beside her faithful friend, Sophie, each in their own recliner watching game shows together. Her favorite was Steve Harvey on Family Feud. She was also known for staying up until three o'clock in the morning working word searches, only to spend the next day trying to solve the real mystery, why she was so tired. When her health allowed, Carroll also enjoyed quilting. Although her family will miss her deeply, they find comfort in knowing she is finally home with her Lord. And if they know Carroll, Heaven has already heard her unmistakable voice, probably giving the good Lord an earful.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Roger “Todd” McGhee; parents, Gentry and Georgia Walls Cardwell; brother, Leon and wife, Bonita; and nephew, Scott Prater.

Carroll is survived by her son, Brian McGhee and wife, Nikki; sister, Jean Prater and husband, Eddie; grandsons, Jeffery and wife, Natasha, and Marcus and his girlfriend, Tosha; bonus grandchild, Harlie Harper; great-granddaughter, Marissa McGhee, "Miss Priss"; several nieces and nephews; and special friends, Sophie Brown and Amira Lyons.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude for the compassionate care provided by Caris Healthcare Hospice.

Graveside services will be held Monday, June 29, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Ridgedale Cemetery, 1112 Ridgedale Rd, Saltville, VA 24370 with Pastor Ray Wolford officiating. Family and friends are asked to meet at the cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers will be Jeffery and Marcus McGhee, AJ Keyser, Wayne Carter, Jim Cardwell, and Gary Wayne Owens, with Joe Tuell serving as honorary pallbearer. Pallbearers are asked to be at the cemetery by 9:45 a.m.

Online condolences may be expressed at drhendersonfuneralhome.com. D.R. Henderson Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Carroll Cardwell McGhee.