Carl James Lizana

Carl James Lizana Sr., 73, of Gulfport, Mississippi, passed away on July 3, 2025. Born on December 12, 1952, Carl lived a life with a deep devotion to his family, hard work, and an unforgettable spirit. He worked for CSX Railroad for 22 years before retiring early to care for his son, Carl James Jr., after a tragic car accident left him disabled. Carl was the best full-time caregiver for his son and took pride in doing so for 10 years until his passing in 2011, a testament to the devotion to his family and of his love and strength.

Carl had a lifelong passion for all things fast—race cars, motorcycles, and anything with speed. In his younger years, he enjoyed working on them and took pride in his collection of guns and knives. He was known for his big heart, doing anything for anyone, no matter the cost. He lived out “Let no one seek his own, but each one the others well-being.”  1 Corinthians 10:24. Although he didn’t indulge in drinking, he was certainly the life of the party with his love of dancing, singing, and making people laugh. To his daughter and granddaughters, he was the strongest man in the world.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, whom he adored more than life itself; his daughter Elisha Tinsley and son-in-law Mike; grandchildren Courtney Alyssa Dudney, Tre’ (Grace) Dudney, Karlie Dudney (Alex), Ragan (Zack) Downs, Gavin Lizana, and Ethan Burgess; and great-grandchildren Noah Arnold, Presley Downs, and Blake Downs; siblings, Dorothy Beach, Ronnie Lizana, Paul Woodcock. Carl is also remembered with love by his former son-in-law John Dudney and former daughter-in-law April Bullock, whom he still considered family and loved. He leaves behind a large and loving extended family—many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles—whom he cherished deeply. Carl is preceded in death by his only son, Carl James Lizana Jr.; his brothers, Eddie and Ernie Lizana; and his mother Lucille Lizana & father Paul Lizana

Though his absence leaves an immense hole, there is great comfort in knowing that Carl surrendered fully to Christ in the last months of his life and endured faithfully until the end. His legacy of love, laughter, loyalty, and strength will continue to inspire all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to his widow, Lydia Lizana, to help offset expenses. Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the Lizana family in their time of need and asks that you keep them in your prayers for the days ahead.