Merlin Jay Carpenter

Merlin “Merle” Jay Carpenter, 90, of Springfield, passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025.
He was born on Sept. 14, 1934, in Superior, Neb., to Jesse and Mamie Carpenter. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Harold Carpenter and Arcele Andersen; his wife of 62 years, Norma Koinzan Carpenter; his children, Michael Ray Carpenter and Joyce Carpenter Ward; and grandchildren, Erica Angelo and Rachael Angelo.
He is survived by his second wife, of almost 9 years, Debra Carpenter; sister, Dorothy Russell, of Calif.; children, Patty Carpenter Hudson (Jerry) of Ala., David Carpenter of Bois d’Arc, Juanita Carpenter Angelo (David) of N.Y.; nine grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Kim Carpenter of Springfield; son-in-law, Roy Ward of Colo.; and many friends and extended relations.
Visitation was held at Maranatha, located at Chapel 233 E Norton Rd. in Springfield, at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 6 followed by celebration of life at 11 a.m. Interment was immediately followed at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens at 3600 N National in Springfield.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to please donate to Berean Baptist Missions 507 E Norton Rd Springfield Mo 65803, or at Bereansgf.org
His services and care have been entrusted to Greenlawn Funeral Home North.