Donald Jones Carpenter, age 95 of Rutherfordton died Thursday, October 10, 2024, at his home.  He was born in Rutherford County on November 6, 1928, and was a son of the late Hoyle and Ruby Jones Carpenter.  Donald was a member of the Long Branch Road Baptist Church and was a graduate of Mount Vernon High School where he was the valedictorian of his class.  He was a service member of the United States Navy and was a veteran of the Korean War where he served on the USS LST 898 and USS Repose AH-16 for recovery and treatment.  He also served in Adak, Alaska.  After his military service, he began working at Tanner Companies where he worked until retirement.  Donald also enjoyed playing golf during his free time.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Rowann Bailey Carpenter, his brothers Bill and Bob Carpenter and his sister, Dorothy Carpenter Champion.

Survivors include his son, Donald Terry Carpenter of Jonas Ridge, North Carolina, his daughter, Kim Carpenter Newton and husband Mike of Forest City, his grandson, Trent Newton and wife Elizabeth and his great-grandson, Charlie Newton all of Ellenboro.

A service from the graveside will be held at 11 o’clock on Monday, October 14, 2024 at Eternal Hills Memorial Park with the Reverend Jerry Ruppe officiating.  The family will receive friends following the service at the cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Long Branch Road Baptist Church, 621 Long Branch Road, Forest City, North Carolina 28043. 

The Padgett and King Mortuary & Crematory is in charge of arrangements and an online guest registry is available at www.padgettking.com