Raymond “Ray” Carpenter, 88, of Hendersonville went home to be with his Heavenly Father Tuesday, Sept 21, 2021 at Carolina Reserve of Laurel Park.

Born in Villanow, GA, he was a son of the late Glen and Alice Reynolds Carpenter.

He had lived in Henderson County for 54 years and was a member of Balfour Baptist Church.

“Today we celebrate the life of our dad, Raymond “Ray” Milledge Carpenter. He was married to our mom for 61 wonderful years, had 2 sons and 5 grandchildren. He served his country and his community. He was adventurous, intelligent, giving, funny, hardworking, supportive, patriotic, and so many other things. But most of all… he was loving. He loved his wife…he loved his family…and he loved the church.   He loved them all Well.  We as people might naturally think that what we do in our jobs or our interests is what define us….. But I would argue that it’s how a man loves that truly matters.   Dad you did it right! You loved us all well. You personified unconditional love… love without strings, without personal gain.   A pure love!   What a great example of a father, husband and friend that you left us with. You are “the man” and everyone that ever met you was forever changed. You had that impact on people.   We love you and we will miss you more than our hearts can stand. This is goodbye for now….But we will see you again along those beautiful shores.”

Ray is survived by his sons, Phillip Carpenter (Kim) and Steven Carpenter (Tracy), all of Hendersonville; grandchildren, Katie Carpenter of Atlanta, GA; Nick Carpenter, Morgan Carpenter, Ben Davis and William Carpenter, all of Hendersonville; sister, Carolyn Tate of Villanow, GA; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at Shepherd Memorial Park on Wednesday, September 29, 2021, at 1PM with Rev. Joe Lund officiating.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Balfour Baptist Church, 2502 Asheville Hwy., Hendersonville, NC 28791.