Gloria Dawn Carpenter

Gloria Dawn Carpenter, 76, of Massillon, Ohio, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on September 3, 2025 at the Justin T. Rogers Hospice Center in Fairlawn. Born on May 26, 1949, in Thornton, West Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Lee Ellis and Martha Bell Stewart.

Gloria dedicated her life to service-both to her community and her family. For 35 years, she worked as a bus driver and trainer for Massillon City Schools. Her work brought her immense pride and joy; she cherished watching generations of students grow up-first taking them to school, then their children, and eventually their grandchildren. Her commitment extended beyond the school district as she also worked at Fast & Friendly's food mart for over three decades. There, she became a familiar and friendly face to many in the neighborhood, forming lasting connections with those she served.

She shared 59 loving years with her devoted husband, Don Carpenter. Together they built a life centered around family and simple joys. Gloria was the proud mother of Don Carpenter (Michelle), Ron Carpenter (Jodie), and Rebecca Woods (David). She found great happiness in being a grandmother to DJ Carpenter, Dakota Carpenter, Kyle Carpenter, Austin Carpenter, Bella "Niko" Woods, David Woods, and great grandmother to Alexander Wadsworth.

Gloria is also survived by her siblings Bob Stewart, Norma Shuman, and Rose Newcome. She was preceded in death by her parents, infant daughter, Tracy Diane Carpenter, daughter-in-law, Belinda Graber, siblings, Ellis Stewart, Ray "Bud" Stewart, Dale Stewart, David Stewart, Lee Edward Stewart, Carl Stewart, Anna Mae Bolyard, and Karen "Kate" Stewart, several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A woman of warmth and wit, Gloria was known for her feisty spirit and caring heart. She had an uncanny ability to say just the right thing at the right time-whether it brought comfort or laughter. Her happiest moments were spent surrounded by family.

In her leisure time, Gloria enjoyed collecting Home Interior figurines and going for scenic car rides with Don to admire the world around them. She loved watching movies and treasured every opportunity to be with those she held dear.

She was a sister of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses since the early 70's. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.

A service will be held, September 20, 2025 at 2 pm at the Kingdom Hall, 3511 Deuber Ave SW, Canton, OH 44706.

A Celebration of Life will be held November 1, 2025 from 2-6 at the North Lawrence Fire Station Hall, 4052 Alabama Ave NW, North Lawrence, OH 44666.