Cameron Metz Carpenter

November 29, 1942 – January 18, 2026

Cameron Carpenter, lovingly known as “Pepa,” of Newalla, Oklahoma, passed peacefully from this earth on January 18, 2026, at the age of 83. He was born on November 29, 1942, to Metz Matthew Carpenter and Irene Cameron Carpenter. In eternal rest, Cameron is joyfully reunited with his beloved wife, Kay Carpenter, who preceded him in death in March of 2010, as well as his parents and many cherished loved ones. Cameron was a man of determination and curiosity, becoming the first in his family to attend and graduate from college, a remarkable accomplishment of which he was deeply proud. He earned his Bachelor of Science in History from the University of Texas at Arlington, Class of 1968. A lifelong learner and natural historian, he carried his love of knowledge far beyond the classroom, ultimately becoming the keeper of his family’s stories, traditions, and memories. On February 8, 1964, Cameron married the love of his life, Kay Carpenter, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Dallas, Texas. Their marriage was a testament to devotion, partnership, and enduring love. Together, they raised three children: Nathan Carpenter (Nancy) of Brookline, Missouri; Katrina Carpenter of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and Sean Carpenter (Alida) of McLoud, Oklahoma. Cameron and Kay shared a love for traveling and adventure, making countless memories together as they explored many places near and far. Those journeys were a reflection of their deep companionship and shared joy in experiencing life side by side. Cameron was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren: Blake and Mason (Nathan and Nancy), Cameron, Sarah, and Allison (Katrina and Don), and Desiree, Shawna, and John (Sean and Alida). He was also a deeply devoted great-grandfather to twelve great-grandchildren, each of whom he loved and cherished beyond measure. Throughout his life, Cameron lived in Dallas, Texas; Moore, Oklahoma; West Sussex, Horsham, England; and ultimately Newalla, Oklahoma, where he made his home. No matter where he lived, family was always the center of his world. Cameron had a deep love for music and dancing, especially to the sounds of the Bee Gees, ABBA, and Bob Seger. He was happiest on the dance floor, particularly when dancing with those he loved, often dressed in his proudly owned disco apparel. His favorite color was red, a fitting choice for someone who lived life boldly and fully. An outdoorsman at heart, Cameron enjoyed hunting, fishing, reloading ammunition, cleaning his guns, and researching topics of interest online. He took great pride in building his own computer alongside his grandson Cameron—an experience that perfectly reflected his love of learning, patience, and connection. His perfect day was spent with family, watching his favorite news station, and enjoying a special treat of Braum’s ice cream. Cameron taught his family the true meaning of unconditional love and support. He believed deeply in pausing to appreciate life, even during difficult seasons, and he never missed an opportunity to remind those around him to find joy—and always make time to dance with the people you love. A devoted Catholic, Cameron was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus and lived his faith through service, integrity, and love for others. Above all, Cameron loved his family fiercely and intentionally. He made time for each person, ensured they felt seen and valued, and preserved countless memories through photographs and recordings of family gatherings—moments he knew would one day be priceless. Cameron Carpenter leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, perseverance, laughter, music, adventure, and family devotion. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered until the day we are reunited once more. A visitation will be held on January 30, 2026, from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm at Resthaven Funeral Home, located at 44909 Highway 3, Shawnee, OK, 74801. The funeral service is scheduled for January 31, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm at the same venue. Following the funeral, a committal service will take place on January 31, 2026, from 3:30 pm to 3:50 pm at Resthaven Memorial Park, 16006 S Rock Creek Rd, Shawnee, OK, 74801.