Michael Carpenter

Michael Carpenter, 50, went to be with the Lord Jesus Christ at 11:20pm on Friday, May 29, 2026, at his residence surrounded by his family. Born May 11, 1976, in Alton, Illinois, he was the son of the Sheila (Stairs) Carpenter of Eldred and the late Dennis Carpenter.  He was also blessed by the love and care of his stepmother, Tina Carpenter, who survives. He married the former Lauren Lay on October 16, 2021, and she survives. Other survivors include a son and a daughter, Austin Carpenter of South Roxana and Lettie Will of Caseyville, a brother and two sisters: Don and Angie Carpenter of Eldred, Staci Coles of South Roxana, and Sara Dixon of Roxana, and many nieces, nephews, and beloved extended family and friends.

Michael graduated from Roxana High School in 1994. Following graduation, he entered the United States Air Force and was stationed in Montana (which he loved), where he spent eight years before returning home to southern Illinois. He worked in many different fields before settling into being self-employed and building a life with Lauren and Lettie in what they called “the farmhouse.” He was devoted to his family.

Michael loved to serve others; especially his family and his church family. Michael spent countless hours barbecuing, smoking meats, hosting his church men's group, and serving those around him. He also loved the outdoors, having spent the majority of his life hunting, fishing, and working with his hands on his home and with his family.

Most importantly, Michael loved Jesus Christ. The Lord graciously saved Michael in 2022 and he followed his Lord in baptism on November 13 of that same year. Michael was a living example of a life transformed by the Gospel of Grace; he was not a perfect man, but he was a faithful man. In his final years and days, Michael’s greatest desire was to spend time with his family and bring glory to the Lord Jesus Christ who paid the insurmountable debt he owed and gave him His righteousness, by faith. Praise God!

“Well done, good and faithful servant…Enter into the joy of your Master” (Mt. 25:21).

In celebration of his life, visitation will be from 9am until time of funeral services at 11am on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Pitchford Funeral Home. His brother, Pastor Don Carpenter will officiate. Burial with full military honors will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to Damascus Road Fellowship, 1485 Frank Scott Pkwy W, Belleville, Illinois, 62223 and will also be accepted at the funeral home.