Elaine M. Carpenter

ELAINE M. CARPENTER died July 13, 2018. She was predeceased by her husband, Charles L. Carpenter Sr., parents Thomas M. and Juanita Mays McDonald, sister Bettye M. Caldwell (and Fred. T.) She is survived by her sons Larry (Beth) and Tom (Kay), two grandchildren, Dr. Matthew Carpenter, and Mark Carpenter; nephew Paul Caldwell (Jan), niece Elizabeth Lawson, and grand-nieces Rachel and Rebecca Caldwell. Born Sept. 9, 1921 in Smithville, Texas, Mrs. Carpenter received a bachelor's degree from Texas State College for Women (TWU), did graduate work at Iowa State University, and later received a Master's Degree from the University of Central Arkansas. For over 30 years she served as a high school librarian in the NLR School District, retiring in 1985. Favorite memories included finding football books for Jerry Jones, but more importantly, helping young women focus on literature and believe they could achieve any goal. A faithful member of 1st United Methodist Church in North Little Rock, she sang in the choir and taught Sunday School. As a young girl, she played the piano for civic club luncheons (enjoying the free lunch during the Depression), and continued to play until the last few months made that too difficult. She was also a Daughter of the Republic of Texas. A member of the NLR Retired Teachers, she never quite retired. Her activities included the NLR History Commission, help with literacy programs, mentoring students, delivering meals to those in need, giving book reviews, and working with the NLR Garden Club. During World War II, she worked Kelley Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. Once upset when an upstart lieutenant asked her to correct his dictation, she consented only when the commanding Colonel said, "Miss McDonald, if Lieutenant Carpenter asked you to make the correction, then make the correction." Somehow this promising start led to their marriage on February 3, 1946. Shortly afterwards she moved with him to North Little Rock. Interested in history, religion, literature, and travel, she had extensive travels around the world. She was also an accomplished amateur photographer (until digital cameras surpassed her). Visitation is from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Monday, July 16, at Roller-Owens Funeral Home in North Little Rock. After a private burial, a memorial service will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, July 17 at 1 p.m. Unless it is possible to find Texas bluebonnets, in lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to 1st United Methodist Church in North Little Rock, St. LaBre Indian School in Montana, or the Literacy Council of Pulaski County.