Bethany, MO: Carroll Lynn “C.L.” Fordyce, 93, of Bethany, Missouri, passed away surrounded by family on October 29, 2026, in the home where he was born. Born April 17, 1933, to Ralph and Jennie Fordyce, C.L. was a lifelong resident of Bethany, a dedicated farmer, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and uncle, and a man whose roots ran deep in the land and community he loved.
C.L. attended Southwest Harrison High School. On Christmas Day, 1952, he married the love of his life, Marilyn June Sanders, before leaving to serve his country in the United States Army. He was a proud member of the Big Red One, the 1st Infantry Division, and was deployed to Germany during the Korean War.
C.L. and Marilyn shared 73 years of marriage, building a life together that was truly a partnership. Aside from his time in the service, the two rarely spent much time apart. Before welcoming their two sons, they enjoyed traveling and camping together. As their family grew, so did their adventures, with family trips and countless memories made along the way. Whether at home, traveling, or working side by side, Marilyn was his constant companion and an important part of every chapter of his life.
Following his military service, C.L. devoted his life to farming and working the land. A lifelong farmer, dozer operator, and soil conservation contractor, there wasn’t a piece of farm equipment he couldn’t operate. His farming years took him beyond Missouri, spending much of his younger years and early family life farming near Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, during the summer months while returning to Missouri in the spring and fall. This tradition continued until 1972, when his time farming in Canada came to an end. Over the years, Saskatchewan became a second home to C.L. and Marilyn, where they built lifelong friendships and relationships that remain to this day.
C.L. took tremendous pride in his work and had a deep appreciation for the land and animals he cared for. Known for his strong work ethic, he could often be found in the fields long after other operators had called it a day. Even after officially “retiring,” C.L. never really left the farm. He continued making daily trips to check on things and, when he could no longer make those visits himself, he maintained daily phone calls with farm managers Jeff Bottcher and Bryan Barnett to make sure everything was being taken care of and meeting his standards. Farming wasn’t simply what C.L. did; it was who he was.
C.L. shared a special bond with his sons, Richard and Robert, who grew up working alongside him on the farm. Like many fathers and sons who spend long days working together, they shared plenty of close moments, a few disagreements, and more than their fair share of butting heads over the years. But through it all, their bond remained strong and only grew closer with time. Although Richard and Robert’s careers eventually took them in different directions, their connection with their dad never faded. Whether through daily phone calls, early Saturday morning breakfast dates, or drives around town catching up and sharing stories, they made time for one another. Those conversations, routines, and memories became a cherished part of their relationship.
While he was known for his hard work and dedication, those who knew C.L. will remember just as fondly his ornery nature, quick wit, and love of a good laugh. He enjoyed telling jokes, teasing those around him, and finding little ways to stir up some fun. A favorite family tradition began years ago at Christmas dinner, when C.L. started hiding money underneath chairs and around the room, turning the search into a game for everyone. It was just one of the many ways he made family gatherings a little more entertaining.
C.L. also had a well-known sweet tooth, which worked out perfectly given Marilyn’s cooking. Cookies, angel food cake, and Rice Krispie treats were never far away in their kitchen. He enjoyed his morning trips to McDonald’s, where he could catch up with friends and keep up with the latest town happenings. And if you spent much time around him, you likely heard one of his signature responses: “Daggum” or “Gol darn.”
A devoted Missouri sports fan, C.L. could often be found watching his beloved Kansas City Chiefs, Mizzou Tigers, or Kansas City Royals. He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, Ethan and Emma, and took great pleasure in spoiling them whenever he could.
C.L. was a member of the United Methodist Church and Fairview Community Church. His life was built around hard work, family, faith, friendship, and a deep connection to the community he called home.
He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Marilyn June; his sons, Richard and wife Renee, and Robert and wife Cindy; his grandchildren, Ethan and fiancé Lainey, and Emma; brothers-in-law Jack and wife Carol, and James Sanders; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Jennie Fordyce; his brothers, Forrest, Darryl, and Earl; his mother- and father-in-law, Thelma and Garland Sanders; and his sisters-in-law, Deveryl and husband James Hawkins, and Barb Sanders.
C.L. will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, mischievous sense of humor, love of farming, devotion to his family, and the countless stories and memories he leaves behind. Though he spent his entire life in the home where his story began, his influence reached far beyond those walls, touching the lives of family, friends, and the many people he met along the way.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Harrison County Community Hospital, Crestview, and Harrison County Hospice for the care and support they provided. A special thank you to Hailey Comer for her helping hand, kindness, and compassionate care. The family would also like to express their appreciation for the friendship and many visits from Rick Findley and Marty Prewitt. Your thoughtfulness and support will always be remembered.
C.L. was cremated under the direction of Roberson Funeral Home, Bethany, MO.
A memorial visitation will be held Sunday, November 8, 2026, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Roberson Funeral Home in Bethany, Missouri. Family and friends are invited to come together, share stories, and celebrate the life of a man who certainly left plenty of stories worth telling.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Harrison County Community Hospital Foundation or Harrison County Hospice in care of Roberson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 46, Bethany, MO 64424. Online condolences may be left at www.robersonfuneralhome.com.
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