Herbert “Bert” Smith Carraway, Jr.

Herbert “Bert” Smith Carraway, Jr., 71, passed peacefully surrounded by his family on December 8, 2025.

Born on September 16, 1954, in Camden, South Carolina, Bert moved to Vicksburg, Mississippi, in 1965, where he built his life, raised his family, and served his community. He graduated from Warren Central High School in 1973. He spent 23 years with the Vicksburg Fire Department as a firefighter and EMT-1, earning the respect of colleagues and the gratitude of countless residents.

Bert was a man of integrity, humility, and heart. He studied Isshinryu karate for many years, ultimately achieving the rank of third-degree black belt and instructing others. Whether in the dojo, the fire station, or his church, Bert lived a life rooted in service and integrity. He was a member of the Church of Christ, where he developed a strong foundation of faith.

Above all, Bert loved his family. His greatest joy came from his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whose lives he shaped with humor, storytelling, and unwavering love.

Bert is survived by his wife of 49 years, Debra Irwin Carraway; his daughter, Magen Carraway Westcott; and his son, Herbert “Bert” Smith Carraway III, and daughter-in-law Cori Carraway.

He leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Adalyn Anderson, Kelby Westcott Anderson and her husband Boyd Anderson, along with great-granddaughters Sadie-Ruth Elizabeth Anderson and Jane Audrey Anderson; and grandsons Darrington Smith Carraway and Fisher Allen Carraway. Bert is also survived by his sister, Joyce Ferdon (Ricky), of Georgetown, South Carolina.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Frances Rebecca Cramer Carraway; his father, Herbert Smith Carraway; and his brother, Herschall George Carraway.

Serving as pallbearers are Michael Marshal, Daniel Wilkes, Boyd Anderson, Jackie McNair, Charles Atkins, Brett Kirkman, Dan Wilkes and Dereck Kirkman.

Visitation will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Glenwood Funeral Home, followed immediately by a memorial service and interment. 

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