Roger P. Carrillo

Roger P. Carrillo

Jan 4, 1950 - May 7th, 2025
  • Birth Date: Jan 4, 1950
  • Death Date: May 7, 2025
  • Funeral Date: May 19, 2025, 10:00 am
  • Location: St. Mark's Episcopal Church, Little Rock, AR 72205
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Biography: Roger P. Carrillo, beloved husband, father, and Papa, passed away on May 7, 2025, he was 75 years old. Roger was born on January 4, 1950, in El Paso, Texas. As one of six children, Roger knew the value of family and of hard work. 

Roger obtained a bachelors degree in psychology from the University of Texas – El Paso, and a masters degree of education in rehabilitation counseling at the University of Texas – Austin.  Roger followed his passion for working with individuals who were beginning new lives after traumatic injury. Over his career, Roger helped numerous corporations develop nationally recognized general and brain injury rehabilitation programs. His final position, as Executive Vice President of Western LLC, brought him to Arkansas to expand the companys brain injury rehabilitation program across the nation. In addition to his corporate roles, Roger served on the board of the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) - a position he held for many years. Roger was known worldwide as a leader in the field of brain injury rehabilitation.

Roger is proceeded in death by his father Jacinto, mother Celia, and sister Vera. He is survived by Bonnie, his wife of 44 years, daughter Heather (Kyle), and grandchildren Wyatt and Bonnie Rose. Roger is also survived by his brothers JC and Martin, and his sisters Esther and Terri.

Roger will be lovingly remembered for his smile, quick wit, and laughter that often surprised those used to his impeccable professionalism. Roger loved the outdoors, fly fishing, the mountains, the beach, and could always be found by the grill perfecting a steak, salmon, or lobster tail. In addition to his many joys, his true hobby and passion was his family. Everything he did – he did for his family. Roger cherished his grandchildren and took every opportunity to take them on hikes, enlist them as taste testers, or perhaps teach them how to Hook’em Horns when his son-in-law wasn’t looking. Roger was always around for his daughter with sage guidance, a helping hand, or a gentle nudge. His love and pride in her accomplishments were evident and always on display. His wife and partner was always by his side. Bonnie and Roger met in Austin and shared a life that took them to the East Coast, West Coast, and Nashville, before settling in a quiet neighborhood in West Little Rock nearly 30 years ago.  Be it a gentle hand on his back while he was grilling, a furrowed brow at the same old joke, or just holding hands while walking down the beach – their love was obvious to everyone.

Roger was one of the good ones. If you knew him – you are better for it. He is loved and he is missed. We would like to thank the friends and caregivers who supported Roger during his illness.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 19, 2025, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers please donate to the Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA) at 912 Killian Hill Road SW Suite 105 Lilburn, GA 30047 or www.lbda.org or the charity of your choice. Arrangements are under the direction of RuebelFuneralHome.com

Condolences(11)
Sam Atkinson
#11
May 18th, 2025 4:51 pm
To know Roger was a true blessing, his gentle yet straightforward style was something I'll always remember. His love for Bonnie, Heather, Wyatt, Bonnie Rose and Kyle showed all the time. He was so proud of his family. I'll miss the time I was able to share with him but never forget it.
David Holland
#10
May 17th, 2025 8:04 pm
I had the pleasure of working with Roger at NeuroRestorative and collaborated with him on several accreditation surveys. Roger was a gifted leader, inspirational advocate and a true gentleman. My condolences go out to his family.
Frank and Maureen Lewis
#9
May 16th, 2025 7:58 pm
Roger had such a powerful and positive influence on our lives. He was a kind servant, always looking for new and innovative ways to help those less fortunate. He was a good friend, I will miss him. Bonnie you and family are in our prayers.
Timothy Williams
#8
May 16th, 2025 7:47 pm
It was a pleasure to work with Roger on CARF surveys, he was a wealth of knowledge and a lot of fun. It was also great working with a fellow Texan.
Edwayna Howard
#7
May 16th, 2025 2:48 pm
Hold on to the memories of your sweetest days together. Prayers for you, Bonnie, Kyle, Heather, Wyatt and Bonnie Rose.
Sue Christensen
#6
May 16th, 2025 12:03 am
My sincere condolences to Roger’s family. I had the honor of surveying with him several times as fellow CARF surveyors. He was a wonderful mentor and guiding hand with my many questions. He will be missed in the rehabilitation field.

With sympathy,

Sue Christensen
Carolyn Mancuso seagraff
#5
May 15th, 2025 11:46 pm
My sincere sympathy to his family and friends. I had the honor of working with him and for him for many years. His kindness, understanding and belief in others was his super power. I was one of many that he saw potential. He gave me a chance to excel. He will be truly missed. I will never forget him. God bless all who had the honor to have known him. Sincerely
Chris Mac Donell
#4
May 15th, 2025 10:40 pm
Roger was a leader in brain injury rehabilitation and a good friend . I had the privilege to work with Roger at CARF. He was well respected and known for his gentle spirit and compassion for others. He loved his family and always was willing to show off his grandchildren. I leave this quote for those that loved Roger. It has always brought me solace.
I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death.
They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make.
Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories.
We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love.

~ Leo Buscaglia ~
Martin McMorrow
#3
May 15th, 2025 10:17 pm
Saddened by Roger’s passing but totally pleased with my memories of him. My best to Bonnie and all the family.
Debra McMorrow
#2
May 15th, 2025 10:07 pm
Marty and I could not agree more with all the wonderful comments about Roger and his family and colleagues. He was very loved for his gentle soul and always having the next development idea. He will be greatly missed.
Brian J. Boon
#1
May 15th, 2025 9:42 pm
Condolences to the family and friends of Roger. He was always a strong supporter of ensuring those with rehabilitation needs received high quality services and hence his support and engagement with CARF. He was a great supporter of CARF and its mission. Roger will be missed by his friends and colleagues at CARF.

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