Carl R. McKenzie, 70, of Ridgeland, peacefully passed away on July 16, 2023, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on October 8, 1952, to Rayner and Velma Simmons McKenzie in Collins, MS and has been a lifelong resident of Madison, Mississippi. Carl met his precious wife in November of 1968 and they married October 16, 1970. They had two beautiful daughters who shared their "Deddy's" sarcasm and sense of humor. They thought of him as a cross between Clark Griswold and Superman. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and gardening at his farm in north Madison County, but most of all, his grandchildren were his pride and joy. He was well known for following them around with a camcorder and filming as much as possible. Pawpaw's office is proof of his unconditional love and is full of pictures and memorabilia of his family. He always had unlimited treats and candy, earning him the title of Willy Wonka. He had a love for fast cars which led him to work for Ford Motor Company where he retired after 38 years as a mechanic and shop foreman. He could fix just about anything and was always looking for something to piddle with. Carl is survived by his wife of 52 years, Brenda Miller McKenzie; daughters, Tracy Boone (Phillip) and Christy Brister (Michael); grandchildren, Christopher Langham, Corey Langham (Tiffany), Livi Kate Boone, Caroline Brister, Addisyn Brister, and Colton Brister; great granddaughters, Emersyn Langham and Adalyn Langham; best friend since first grade, Jimmy Blackstock (Donna); sister-in-law, Bertha Dossett; and brother-in-law, Jerry Miller. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, James Dossett. Visitation will be held Tuesday, July 18, 2023, from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm at Natchez Trace Funeral Home and again one hour prior to the service on Wednesday, July 19, 2023, at 11:00 am in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow in Jessamine Cemetery.