James Carpenter Obituary

James D. Carpenter

Apr 21, 2025

Willard

James D. Carpenter, 89, a lifelong resident of Willard, passed away Monday, April 21, 2025, at The Willows at Willard. He was born October 14, 1935, in Willard, to the late Rolla and Martha (Schultz) Carpenter.

Jim was a 1954 graduate of Willard High School. He was the football captain and Harlow Stapf winner of his class. After graduation, he went on to proudly serve our country in the United States Army, where he served in Korea. He worked at General Motors in Sandusky for 38 years and was a proud member of Local Union 913. After retiring from there, he delivered meals on wheels and worked as a groundskeeper for Willard City School system. Jim was a lifelong member of First United Methodist Church in Willard. He was an umpire and little league coach for many years in Willard. Jim's family would like to thank the staff at The Willows at Willard for their outstanding care for their loved one.

He is survived by his son, Kenneth Carpenter; daughters, Carol Carpenter and Ann Carpenter; grandchildren, Kara (Matthew) Eldridge, Kaci (Kaleb) Foster, CJ Carpenter and Hope Carpenter; six great-grandchildren; along with several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis A. Carpenter; two sisters, Evelyn Johnston and Lenoa Zeigler; seven brothers, Paul, Raymond, Eugene, Robert, Gerald, Everett, and Phillip Carpenter.

Calling hours will be from 11:30-1 p.m. Saturday, May 3, 2025, at First United Methodist Church, where his funeral service will begin at 1 p.m. Pastor Ken Gifford will officiate. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery, Willard, where military honors will be conducted.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Willard Athletic Boosters or Dementia Society of America.

Online condolences can be made to James' family by visiting www.secorfuneralhomes.com