David "Steve" Carpenter

ROCKY MOUNT – David “Steve” Carpenter, age 72, passed away on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, in Nash General Hospital. Born in Nash County, NC on October 29, 1952, he was the son of the late Charlie Winslow Carpenter and Annie Rea Carpenter. He was also preceded in death by his brother Charlie Ray Carpenter, Steve had a twin whom was deceased at birth.

Steve had been battling cancer for several months; He was such a fighter and had been his whole life. From being disabled as a child and struggling physically he never gave up. He worked for several years at Lewis Tavern in Rocky Mount and then later at Rolling Mills where he retired. His dedication and hard work helped him to own his own home and live independently for many years.  Steve was a very avid chess player. Whenever there was a birthday party, family reunions or just a simple get together he would always bring his chess set. In hopes that someone would want to play or even learn to play chess. His patience was wonderful with children trying to teach them to read, he even made-up card games to help them learn how to count. For many years during Hannah’s childhood her and Uncle Steve wrote and mailed letters to each other. He really enjoyed teaching children all kinds of things and this helped Hannah learn how to write letters and the mail system. Steve was always one to call or send a card for your birthday. He had his demanding ways, but it was something you just looked over it was Uncle Steve! He was a man who loved his family though he was never married or had children of his own he treated all his nieces, nephew and great nieces and nephews as his own. Steve, Cari and Rai’lah shared a special bond and held a special place in their hearts for each other. His niece Clancy and nephew Blair was his main support system from grocery shopping, doctor appointments to handy work he knew he could count on them. Steve will be remembered for riding his 3 wheeled bicycle all over town going to the store or going to see family wearing his silver bullet helmet memories never forgotten. Thank you to his recent caretaker Alyssa Cates for helping him to stay in his home during this difficult time. Uncle Steve is one of a kind and a very special one of a kind.

Steve is survived by his brothers, Marvin Carpenter (JoAnne), Dennis Carpenter (Joy), Jack Carpenter (Cathy); nieces and nephews, Clancy Carter (Shane), Blair Carpenter (Amanda), Ryan and Chad Carpenter, Ashley Ezzell (Mike), Ray Proctor, Shannon Brown (Greg); Great &Great Great-nieces and nephews, Cheyenne Carter, Rocky Carter, Cari, Rai’lah, Hannah Carpenter, Gavin Carpenter, Jessica Proctor, Victoria Proctor, Paige Brown, Austin Brown, Kaylee Carpenter, Logan Carpenter, Isaac Carpenter; and many cousins and friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Chapel of Johnson Funeral Home & Cremation Services with Ray Proctor officiating.

Arrangements entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 661 English Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.johnsonfuneralsandcremations.com.