Brigham Ray Carpenter

Ray Carpenter was the best kind of friend and mentor. His kindness, wisdom, and humor left a lasting impact on all who knew him. Whether through his work, his family, or his community, he lived a life of generosity, innovation, and love.

Brigham Ray Carpenter, 84, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2025, in St. George, Utah, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on December 29, 1940, in St. George, Utah, to Brigham Carpenter and Effie Burdett Stringham, Ray was a man of vision, innovation, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. He married his high school sweetheart, Madge Gillespie, on August 24, 1959, and they were later sealed in the St. George Temple on December 10, 1960. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, faith, and service.

A Life of Innovation and Service 

Ray's work ethic and passion for learning began early. As a teenager, he worked at Dick's Café, starting as a dishwasher and working his way up to salad chef. At just 15, eager to serve his country, he joined the Army Artillery, which sparked his lifelong interest in electronics. His military career spanned three years of active duty and ten years in the Army Reserves, where he graduated from Officer Candidate School and rose to the rank of Second Lieutenant. He continued his education at Fort Sill and Lawton Radio and Television School in Oklahoma, specializing in electronics.

Returning home to St. George, Ray balanced family life with a diverse and ambitious career. He worked as a television and appliance repairman, theater manager, and radio and television engineer. He managed the Dixie, Gaiety Theaters, and Starlight Drive-In, later becoming the head engineer at KDXU and KZEZ radio. 

Ray was also involved in the film industry, appearing as an extra in The Conqueror (1956), They Came to Cordura (1959), and Harry's War (1981), the latter of which he also provided technical support for.

His career took him to California, where he worked for Ampex Corporation, contributing to advancements in computer logic. Upon returning to Utah, he played a pivotal role in local media, managing Jones Intercable and later founding Valley Cable, KATJ Radio, and Sky-Vision Wireless Cable, which evolved into American Wireless and AWI Internet. He was also instrumental in running County TV for over 30 years and was a pioneer in early internet services, launching one of Utah's first Bulletin Board Systems to provide access to state legislation.

Ray was passionate about education and shared his knowledge by teaching electrical apprenticeships at Dixie College. His commitment to the community extended beyond technology-his love for music led him to acquire KZEZ radio, bringing soft instrumental music to St. George residents. 

In recognition of his contributions, Ray was honored with the Distinguished Citizen and Generous Friend of Dixie College Award in 2008.

Family and Legacy 

Ray's greatest joy was his family. He and Madge devoted their lives to supporting LDS missionaries and serving others in need. His kindness, intelligence, and humor left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Ray is survived by his children: RaeLynn (James) Hoskins, Kathy (Kenny) Anderton, Scott Carpenter (Mark Erickson), Sheri Wakeman, and Pam (David) Malykont; his siblings: Stella Herben, Susan Carpenter Campbell, Val Carpenter, and John Carpenter; as well as a vast posterity that includes 35 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren, with two great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren on the way.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Madge Gillespie Carpenter, his parents Brigham Carpenter and Effie Burdett Stringham, his siblings Caroline May Carpenter, Annie Marmora Carpenter, Lila Carpenter, Albert William Carpenter, and Edward Lyle James Sr., his son-in-law Robert Wakeman as well as 2 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

Funeral Services 

Family and friends are invited to join in celebrating Ray's remarkable life on Friday, February 14, 2025, at the Buena Vista Stake Center, 860 Fairway Dr, Washington, UT 84780. 

•Viewing: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

•Funeral Service: 1:00 PM Following the service, a graveside dedication will be held at the St. George City Cemetery

For family and friends unable to attend in person, please join us live at the following link:
https://zoom.us/j/94600851459?pwd=lmE95w6z1dYStxgH22dl6RrRqqP3Gv.1
Passcode:426993

Final Acknowledgments

Ray was never left alone in his final days. His family surrounded him constantly, holding his hand, sharing laughter, and making sure he knew how deeply he was loved-just as he had done for them throughout his life. His passing was filled with the same warmth, love, and connection that defined his time on this earth.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Amy Adams for the personal care and compassion she provided as Ray's nurse over the last year, especially in his final days. 

Ray Carpenter's legacy of faith, innovation, and service will live on through the countless lives he touched. His family finds comfort knowing that he has been reunited with his sweetheart, Madge, and that his influence will continue for generations to come.