Clarence Carpenter

Clarence Jeffery Carpenter, 96, of Jackson, died Monday, September 25, 2023. Clarence was born on April 13, 1927 in Koenton, AL to the late Leslie and Ellen Henson Carpenter. At the age of 17, Clarence left school and enlisted in the United States Navy which is how he found himself at Pearl Harbor where he earned the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. He later married Lucille Mosley Carpenter and moved to Jackson where they raised three children.

Clarence retired from Boise Cascade where he worked as a millwright for many years. He was a faithful and devoted member of Forest Avenue Baptist Church. Clarence was also a member of the VA, VFW, Woodmen of the World, as well as a lifetime member of the Frankville Fiddler's Convention. As anyone who knew Clarence can attest, he was a lifelong fiddler who could pick out a tune by the age of 6 and won his first competition at 10 years of age. Proud moments of his later years included receiving his high school diploma from Millry High School nearly 80 years after leaving school to join the Navy during World War II and being inducted into the Washington County Musician's Hall of Honor.

Clarence's talents extended beyond music into woodworking and carpentry. Several relatives and friends were gifted a handmade piece of furniture or two lovingly crafted by him. He also enjoyed a peaceful day of fishing and spending time in his garden, nurturing his soul in nature while growing delicious food which he graciously shared with many. Most of all, Clarence enjoyed spending time with others. Whether sharing a good meal, a good story or a good song, Clarence has left an indelible mark on many a soul in our community and beyond.

Clarence is survived by his children, Stephen Carpenter, Dianne Elliott (Lyman) and Terry Carpenter (Andrea); grandchildren, Brandy Pollard, Bryan Carpenter, Quintin Carpenter, Justin Carpenter, Stevie Carpenter, Morgan Garrett and Julian Carpenter; 15 great grandchildren; brother, Dewey Carpenter as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Lucille Carpenter; daughter-in-law, Rhonda Carpenter as well as three brothers and five sisters and one great-grandchild.

Services will be held Thursday, September 28, 2023 at Forest Avenue Baptist Church. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the service begins at 11:30 a.m. with Rev. John Boss officiating. Interment will follow in Trinity Memorial Gardens with Lathan Funeral Home officiating.

Pallbearers will be Quintin Carpenter, Julian Carpenter, Justin Carpenter, Stevie Carpenter, Bryan Carpenter and Michael Parham. Honorary Pallbearers will be The Clarence Carpenter Band - Tony, Lynn, Michael, Tim, Anky, Wesley and Hal.

In lieu of flower, the family request donations be made to the Alabama Boys and Girls Ranch or to Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital. Condolences may be left at www.lathanfuneralhome.com.