She was a dedicated pastor's wife to her late husband, Rev. Ronnie Carpenter, homemaker and a retired Drew Central Food Service Director for 37 years. She also previously worked as a retail sales clerk. In her later years, she was the daily sitter for her two great granddaughters, Emma and Caroline, for seven years. In addition to her husband and parents, she was also preceded in death by three brothers, Carl, Garvin and Clell Goyne; one sister, Virginia Lloyd; and one infant sister.
Mrs. Carpenter was a member of Ladelle Baptist Church where her grandson pastors and, in recent years, also attended Prairie Grove Baptist Church where her son pastors. It was her joy to support both her son and her grandson in their ministries. She was very active in her church as she sang in both church choirs, was a Sunday school teacher for many years and was on the finance committee for many years. Her hobbies included reading her Bible, sitting on her porch bird watching, cooking for family and friends, hunting in her early years, watching ice-skating and the Razorbacks, along with picnicking with her two great granddaughters.
Survivors include one son, Rev. Ricky L. Carpenter of Ladelle; one daughter, Rhonda Carpenter Mitchell and husband Billy of Ladelle; three grandchildren, John Mitchell, Joanna Rayner and Ryan McRae and wife Liz; seven special great grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; and three brothers and sisters-in-law.
Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, March 22, 2018 at Ladelle Baptist Church with Rev. Ricky Carpenter and Rev. Ryan McRae officiating. Burial will follow in Ladelle Cemetery. Visitation 6:00-8:00 p.m. Wednesday evening at Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the Ladelle Baptist Church and Prairie Grove Baptist Church. Online guestbook at www.stephensondearman.com.
Condolences(18)
Phyllis Stanford Mosley
Sheridan, AR Monday, April 9, 2018 Rhonda and Ricky,I was visiting my mom the other day and learned of you mom's passing. I remember her as such a sweet, easy going lady; always so pleasant to everyone! I am so sorry for your loss, we lost my dad just recently as well and understand a little of what you are going through. We hope that you know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families! God bless...
linda funderburg
onticello, AR Thursday, April 5, 2018 my confdolence to the carpenter family God bless uou'llMary F. King
Monticello,, AR Tuesday, March 27, 2018 I am so sorry to learn of Ms. Athlean's passing. I worked with her at Drew Central nearly half my life. She and Brother Ronnie were fine, Godly people. Ms. Athlean's passing leaves a void in the community. My deepest condolences to her loved ones. I know you are heartbroken at the loss of this strong, kind lady.Mary F. King
Arthur Walmsley
Stuttgart, AR Saturday, March 24, 2018 Praying for Athleans family and friends. The presence of GOD radiated from her. Now she is in the presence of GOD. I can only imagine.Doug McCarty
Nashville, TN Friday, March 23, 2018 Rhonda, Ricky and Family,May God wrap his arms around each of you .....
You are all in my thoughts and prayers......
Doug
Gail Kizer
Dermott, AR Thursday, March 22, 2018 I thought Mrs. Carpenter was one of the sweetest people I have ever met. I always enjoyed visiting with her. She could make the best chicken and dressing in the world.Alice Robinson Thomas
Redfield, AR Wednesday, March 21, 2018 Dear Rhonda Ricky & FamilyI am thinking of all of you! Ms. Athlean was such a sweet, Godly lady and I know you will all miss her so much. May God Bless & Comfort Each of You! Love & Prayers from all of the Robinson Family. Alice Robinson Thomas
Mark@mary withers
Camden, AR Wednesday, March 21, 2018 Ricky and Rhonda we are sorry for the loss of your sweet mother mom, y'all are in our prayers!Gloria Schwab
Bentonville, AR Wednesday, March 21, 2018 I’m so sorry for your loss . What wonderful memories I have of her at Drew Central . Truly a special lady .dianne lloyd
monticello, AR Wednesday, March 21, 2018 Rhonda, was so sorry to hear about your mom. She was a lovely person.My thoughts are with your family. Dianne
James and Kathy Berry
Monticello, AR Wednesday, March 21, 2018 Carpenter FamilyWe are sorry for your great loss.She was a great lady.
Sarah Alice Spencer
Ladelle, AR Tuesday, March 20, 2018 Deepest sympathy and prayers for the family. She was a sweet, sweet lady and a devout Christian. Heaven has gained a beautiful angel. "We do not grieve, as those who have no hope."Mary E Goyne Tirmer
Eudora,, AR Tuesday, March 20, 2018 May you rest in peace. You will be truly miss.. Mary Emma Goyne the last Goyne living......xx00xx.
Pam White Blount
Dumas, AR Tuesday, March 20, 2018 Ricky and Rhonda:So sorry to hear about your loss. Mrs. Athlean was a very special woman who touched my life and many others. Every time I make a buttermilk pie (the two recipes she gave me), I think of her. Heaven is rejoicing...an angel returned home.
Pam
linda funderburg
, AR Tuesday, March 20, 2018 prayers for the carpenter family may God old you close during this difficult timelinda funderburg
, AR Tuesday, March 20, 2018 prayers for the carpenter family may God old you close during this difficult timeNancy May
Pine Bluff, AR Tuesday, March 20, 2018 Prayers for this great family. She was a wonderful lady .Frank & Betty Halligan Chancellor
Warren, AR Tuesday, March 20, 2018 So sorry to hear of Mrs. Athlean's passing. You all are in our thoughts and prayers.