News Summary
Parkersburg, West Virginia, bids farewell to John D. Carpenter Sr., a key figure in homebuilding and golf course communities. Recognized for his immense contributions and dedication, Big John’s legacy continues to inspire. His impactful life included a remarkable friendship with golf legends, showcasing his love for the sport throughout the years. Families and friends will gather to honor his memory during a memorial service on August 2, 2025.
Parkersburg Bids Farewell to a Pillar of the Community
Parkersburg, West Virginia, is mourning the loss of a beloved local figure as John D. “Big John” Carpenter Sr. passed away peacefully on June 24, 2025, just a day after his 86th birthday. Known for his incredible contributions to homebuilding and his unyielding dedication to the community, Carpenter’s legacy will surely be felt for years to come.
A Glimpse into Big John’s Life
Born on June 23, 1939, to the late Everett and Esther Carpenter, Big John grew up making lasting memories in Parkersburg. After graduating from Parkersburg High School in 1957 as a state wrestling champion, he forged friendships that stood the test of time
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Continuing his education at West Virginia University, Carpenter embraced the college experience as a member of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity. It was there that he met his lifelong partner, Carol. Their love story blossomed, and they enjoyed a remarkable 65 years of marriage.
Building Dreams, One Home at a Time
Following their marriage, the couple settled back in Parkersburg, where John joined the family’s homebuilding business, Carpenter and Carpenter. They worked diligently to construct custom homes for countless families, leaving behind a tapestry of neighborhoods, including the beloved Woodland Park.
With ambitions that reached beyond West Virginia, Big John eventually relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina, where he collaborated with John Crosland Homes. His journey didn’t stop there; he later made his mark in Seabrook Island, South Carolina, working with Centex Homes and serving as division president. During this time, he spearheaded several significant projects, including the well-known Barefoot Landing in Myrtle Beach.
A Legacy in Golf Course Communities
John was not just a powerhouse in homebuilding but also made a significant impact in the world of golf. Throughout his career, he collaborated with some of the sport’s most prestigious names, including Arnold Palmer, Davis Love III, Pete Dye, and Greg Norman. His partnerships resulted in stunning golf course communities that attracted residents and visitors alike.
Passions and Interests
Beyond his professional achievements, Big John was a man of diverse interests. He loved golfing and would often spend his days out on the green. His love for the game never waned, even achieving the remarkable feat of shooting his age at 83! When he wasn’t golfing, he enjoyed the peaceful allure of fishing in the Florida Keys, a passion that brought him joy throughout his life.
Family Ties
Big John leaves behind a loving family, including his devoted wife Carol, daughter Kathy Nelson (Rob), sons John Carpenter (Alice) and Chase Carpenter (Livi). His legacy continues with his grandchildren—Jordan Bass (Rette), Cory Nelson (Samantha), David Carpenter (Jordyn), Savannah Carpenter, Tyson Carpenter, and Faith Carpenter—as well as his great-grandchildren Beckett Nelson, Oakley Nelson, Ella Bass, and little John “Jack” David Carpenter IV.
A Community United in Grief
John was preceded in death by his parents, sister Jenny Lynne Frances, and brother William “Bill” Everett Carpenter. His absence leaves a void not only in his family but among numerous friends from West Virginia, Seabrook Island, and the Florida Keys as well.
Memorial Service Information
To honor his remarkable life and contributions, a memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 4 p.m. at the Cavin-Cook Funeral Home in Mooresville, NC. Following the service, a reception will provide friends and family the opportunity to share memories and celebrate John’s extraordinary life.
The Cavin-Cook Funeral Home and Crematory is lovingly serving the Carpenter family during this challenging time. Those wishing to extend their condolences can do so via the funeral home’s website. In remembering Big John, let us celebrate an inspiring life dedicated to building homes, loving family, and enriching community ties.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Iredell Free News: John D. Carpenter, Sr.
- Legacy: Adam Strimer Obituary
- WTAP: Mary Jane Carpenter Obituary
- News and Sentinel: Wood Magistrate – April 2025
- Google Search: John D. Carpenter Obituary
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
