Tom A. Carpenter

Tom A. Carpenter, born on September 3, 1930, peacefully passed away at his residence on January 8, 2026, with his loving family by his side. He was a devoted husband to Milladeen Parker Carpenter, his wife of 79 years, and a cherished father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, leaving behind an enduring legacy of love and family.

Tom enjoyed a fulfilling career, having retired from Sonoco Products Company and Builders Transport. He found joy in his work driving trucks, a testament to his passion for the open road. In addition to his professional life, Tom took immense pride in his yard work and loved spending time outdoors, nurturing his surroundings.

His family was the center of his world. He raised his children, Lenny Carpenter (Elaine J.) of Hartsville, Phyllis Griffitts (Rex) of Murrells Inlet, Gary Carpenter (Brenda) of Hartsville, Audrey Miles of Florence, and Gerald Carpenter of Hartsville. With a heart full of love, he adored his twenty-five grandchildren and celebrated the joys of forty-three great grandchildren and fifteen great-great grandchildren.

Tom’s life was marked not only by his dedication to work and family but also by the love he had for his three dogs: Jack, Putt-Putt, and Buttercup. They brought him much joy and comfort throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Giff and Jennie Lee Allen Carpenter, a son, Glen Carpenter, his sister, Libby Huneycutt, and several beloved family members, including grandchildren Dawn Carpenter, Jennings Watford, and Connie Griffitts, as well as his son-in-law, Layton Rubin Miles.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Tom’s life with the following services: a visitation will be held on January 13, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM at Norton Funeral Home of Hartsville, located at 1414 West Carolina Avenue, Hartsville, SC.  Rev. Ken Hughes will officiate, with burial at Florence Memorial Gardens, 3320 South Cashua Drive, Florence, SC 29501.

In lieu of flowers the family as requested memorials be made to St. Judes Children's Hospital or a Charity of ones choice.

Norton Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to be of service to the Carpenter family.

"Memories are the Legacy of Love"