Leo Carlton Carr

LEO CARLTON CARR passed away on April 26, 2022. Born on May 22, 1933 in Port Neches, TX, he was the son of the late Joe C. Carr and Agnes Mae Carr. He had one sibling, his late brother Gordon Carr. Leo was reared in Port Neches graduating with the Port Neches-Groves High School class of 1951 and at age 17, volunteered for service in the United States Navy.

As a proud Navy Veteran who did not hesitate to serve his country, Leo’s first assignment was in San Diego, CA where he trained at the Fleet Sonar School. He was then deployed to active duty on the USS Nicholas DDE 449 destroyer, serving as a Sonarman in the Korean war. Leo maintained a bond of friendship with many of his fellow veterans and regularly attended his annual U.S.S. Nicholas Navy ship reunion to reconnect and renew friendships made over the years.

Upon earning a B.S. and Master’s Degree in Geology from the University of Arkansas, Leo began his professional career in 1962 with the Humble Oil and Refining Company (now Exxon-Mobil) in their Midland office as a staff geophysicist. His geological background coupled with his naval sonar experience made for a natural fit as a geophysicist. Throughout his career he was responsible for several significant field discoveries in the Permian Basin and continued his prospect generation activities in his search for the next oil and gas field discovery up until his recent passing at age 88.

Along with a number of professional organizations, Leo was a long-time member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists, the Society of Independent Earth Scientists, and the West Texas Geologic Society.

Leo volunteered at The Petroleum Museum serving as a docent for 20 plus years. As a long-time member of the First Baptist Church of Midland, he enjoyed his seniors’ Sunday school class, senior group trips, and church events. He took great pleasure spending time with family and cherished friends, watching westerns, drinking coffee, and mentoring young industry professionals.

He was preceded in death by beloved wife, Judith Mae Carr on September 1, 2021. Leo is survived by his three sons, nine grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, and two nieces in Alaska. He leaves a lifetime of treasured memories and a legacy of love, laughter, wit and generosity. Leo will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Interment of ashes with military honors will be in the family plot in Oak Bluff Memorial Park Cemetery, Port Neches, TX at a later date. The family requests any remembrances be made to The Petroleum Museum, American Cancer Society, Gifts of Hope or a charity of choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made at www.npwelch.com.

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