Bobby Ray Carpenter

Bobby Ray Capenter, 75, of Wake Forest, passed away Wednesday evening, February 18, 2026 at Transitions LifeCare surrounded by his family.

He was born in Brunswick County, North Carolina on August 16, 1950, to the late Charlie Lee Carpenter, Sr. and Annie Elizabeth Batten Carpenter. Bobby was number 8 of 11 children, growing up in a large, loving family that helped shape his generous heart and strong sense of loyalty to those he loved.

A proud combat veteran of the United States Army, Bobby served his country honorably during the Vietnam War. During his service, he was exposed to Agent Orange, yet he never allowed the effects of his service to change the way he treated others. He was a former member of Garner VFW Post 10225 and a current member of Wake Forest VFW Post 8466.

Bobby was the best Husband, Dad and Papa. He had a special love for children and babies, and they were naturally drawn to him. He was one of those rare people who would give the shirt off his back and never expect anything in return. His kindness, humor and gentle spirit left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.

He enjoyed woodworking, listening to doo-wop music, Elvis and entertaining family by talking like Donald Duck. In his quiet moments, he loved to read and could often be found watching just about any sport, though the Yankees always held a special place in his heart.

Bobby worked most of his career in shipping & receiving, working with companies such as IBM and Fleet Pride. For a period of time, he also served as a guard at the Women’s Prison. 

Friends may visit with the family from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Wednesday afternoon, February 25, 2026 at Wake Cross Roads Baptist Church, followed by the funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow in the Church Cemetery with military honors.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Alberta Long Carpenter; children, Brandy Carpenter & husband David of Wake Forest, Kenny Ray Llaneta-Carpenter of Roanoke Rapids, Michelle Derby & husband Wayne of Bailey, Miranda Lea Neaves of Statesville and Kristy Carpenter Smith & husband Carroll of Youngsville; grandchildren, Alex & Chris Jasinski, Ethan Whittington (Haley), Titan Hodge, Tiffany Ray Llaneta-Carpenter and Taylor and Allison Carpenter; other grandson, Andy Figueroa; siblings, Kenneth, Sandra, Mary-Frances and Elizabeth; brother-in-law, Don Cornell; beloved dog, Rocky; along with many nieces, nephews and extended family. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Charlie “Trig”, Jr., Willie, Sarah, Evelyn, Jessie Mae and Dewey; daughter-in-law, Tammy Llaneta-Carpenter.

Memorial contributions can be made to Transitions LifeCare, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607 or to Wounded Warriors (www.woundedwarriorproject.org).

Arrangements by Clancy Strickland Wheeler Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 1051 Durham Road, Wake Forest, NC 27587. (919-556-7400)

www.cswfuneralhome.com