David Craig Carpenter

David Craig Carpenter Sr., 65, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2025, at his home in Canton, Texas, while holding the hand of his beloved wife, Donna Carpenter.

David was born on June 29, 1960, in Garland, Texas, to Gan and Lela Carpenter. He was raised in Balch Springs, where he played football and sang in the Mesquite All-Boys Choir. Following in his father’s footsteps and driven by a strong desire to serve, David earned his GED early and proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force. He served four years as an Airman First Class Jet Engine Mechanic.

David spent over 20 years as Head of Warehouse Inventory at Bishop International in Dallas, where he poured his heart into the work he loved. His ability to identify engines with just a short glance was legendary—a reflection of both his deep mechanical knowledge and his decades of hands-on experience. He was also known for his extensive Excel skills, meticulous eye for detail, and his ability to fix almost anything. But beyond his talents, David’s passion extended to the people he worked with. Having known the Bishop family for over 40 years, his connection to the company ran deep. His contributions were both invaluable and lasting.

In 1985, David married the love of his life, Donna, at Shady Grove Baptist Church. What began as a childhood friendship grew into a devoted partnership that spanned four decades. They shared a beautiful life centered around their faith, their family, and the love they had for one another.

David was a devoted husband, father, Poppa, brother, and friend. He is survived by his wife, Donna Carpenter; his children, Candi Carpenter, David “Craig” Carpenter II, Rachael Carpenter, and Melissa (Jerry) Walters; eight grandchildren: Steven Payne, Dylan Payne, Brianna Walters, Madyson Carpenter, Brody Goode, Mallory Carpenter, Justice Brewster, and Raya Brewster; and his sister Pansy “Panz” Cooper.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gan and Lela Carpenter; his sister, Debbie McRoy; his brother, Doyle Carpenter; and brothers-in-law, Benny Cooper, Randy Null, and Lee Nichols; sister-in law, Juanita Carpenter; his grandchildren, “Lil” David Carpenter III and Masey Carpenter; his nephew, Troy Nichols; his niece, Jodi Bogle; and his mother-in-law, Hellen Null.

David’s memory is lovingly cherished by his sister, Pansy Cooper; his extended family—Jimmy and Sue Null, Darlene Nichols, Ricky and Carla Null, Pam Null, Jackie and Gail Null, Debbie and Jimmy Winkle—and many other family members and lifelong friends.

He will be remembered for his generous heart, quiet strength, and unwavering love for his family.

David had a deep passion for bringing people together. He loved planning yearly family vacations and organizing gatherings throughout the year. Whether it was a

major holiday, a weekend getaway, or a simple activity, he always found a reason to unite his family and create lasting memories.

Beyond family life, David was deeply involved in his community. He believed in teaching love and care through action. He coached pee-wee football, served as President of the Family Ties Bowling League, and participated in co-ed softball and bowling leagues. Each Halloween, he brought joy to the neighborhood by hosting an elaborate haunted house. His faith was equally important, and he served faithfully at Wildwood Baptist Church in Canton.

David poured his heart into everything he did—always with the goal of making others feel included, cared for, and loved. His legacy of unity, compassion, and devotion will live on in all who had the blessing of knowing him.

While flowers are welcome, the family also invites those who wish to make a memorial contribution to consider donating to the Wildwood Baptist Church Building Fund in David’s honor.

David’s legacy—his sense of humor, kindness, loyalty, and lifelong service—lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

And as David loved to say with a grin:

“Did you know Arkansas is the only state mentioned in the Bible? Noah looked out the ARK-AN-SAW.”