In Loving Memory of Linda Carpenter

Linda Carpenter will be remembered with deep love for the joy, warmth, and faith she brought into the lives of those around her. She was always laughing and smiling, and her laughter was contagious. Linda was sweet and kind to everyone, with a way of making each person feel welcome, loved, and encouraged. She made you feel as though she was your biggest cheerleader, celebrating your happiness and believing in you. Linda found her greatest happiness in her family, whose love was at the center of her life.

“A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance.”— Proverbs 15:13

These words beautifully reflect Linda’s joyful heart and the smile she shared so freely with others.

Linda grew up in Grosse Pointe, Michigan. After her father retired from General Motors, the family moved to Tennessee. She earned a degree from Tennessee Tech University. She was a member of Good Shepherd United Methodist Church in Hendersonville, Tennessee, where her faith was an important part of her life. She also shared her love of music by playing the bells and the organ, bringing beauty and meaning to her church and to those who heard her play.

Linda cherished her children and grandchildren dearly. She especially loved the time she spent with her grandchildren—laughing, playing games, swimming, and shopping together. Those moments brought her so much happiness and created memories her grandchildren will treasure always. The love she gave her family, along with her laughter and her smile, will remain in their hearts throughout their lives.

Linda is survived by her spouse, Wayne Carpenter; her son, Michael Hawkins (Jessica Boyd); her daughter, Cheryl Campbell (Jesse James Campbell); her granddaughter, Lilly Mae; her grandson, James Henry Campbell; her sister, Shirley Flatt (Jerry); her nephew, Jeremy (Macey), and their children, Canaan, Jasper, and Lake; and her nephew, Jonathan (Jennifer), and their children, Isaac and Harper.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Dimple May Kanter; her father, Eddie Kanter; and her former spouse and the father of her children, James Richard Hawkins, who passed away in 1991. Linda will be laid to rest beside James Richard Hawkins.

The family will hold a small, private funeral and celebration of Linda’s life. A graveside service and burial for the family will take place at a later date.

Flowers and cards may be sent to 226 Galway Rd, Bristol, TN 37620.

Linda will be deeply missed, but her family finds comfort in their faith and in the enduring love she leaves behind. She will live on in every cherished memory, every shared story, every moment of laughter, and every smile that brings her to mind. Her joyful spirit, love of music, devotion to her faith, and love for her family will never be forgotten.

“Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.”— Matthew 5:4

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.”— Psalm 23:6