It is with the deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of Evon Prentice McGowan Carpenter on Wednesday, October 15th, 2025 at her residence in Mobile. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, cousin and friend. Evon was a fierce light in the lives of anyone that knew her.
The youngest daughter of the late Tyra John “TJ” and Opal Prentice, Evon Marie Prentice was born on September 5th, 1942 in Mobile, Alabama. She grew up on a dairy farm, making her tough with an extraordinary work ethic. These are characteristics that have allowed her to survive and overcome some difficult times throughout her life. This country girl at heart, with a strong love for shoes and fashion, has always persevered.
Survived by her loving and faithful husband, James Carpenter. Her 3 children; Vicki (Terry) Binch of Semmes, Alabama, Sammy (Jamie) McGowan of Gulf Shores, Alabama and Kelli (Anthony) Fresolone of Daphne, Alabama. 2 step-sons; Jerry (Lynn) Carpenter of Mobile, Alabama and Danny (Kim) Carpenter of Chattanooga, Tennessee . 11 grandchildren; Casey, Zach, Cody, Sophia, Nick, Emma, Elizabeth, Kyle, Blake, Kelsey and Trent. She leaves behind a hole in the hearts and lives of her entire family, other relatives and friends.
Evon loved being there for her loved ones in any and all ways. If you needed help with a project, she was the first to offer her talents. No matter how big or small or important or trivial she would be the first there to help. She has always loved to paint, wallpaper, make flower arrangements and most of all bake. She will always be remembered for her heavenly pies and cakes. If you were fortunate enough to get a slice…count yourself lucky. She was an active member of Cypress Shores Baptist Church and loved her church family and community with all her heart. Her kids and grandkids are committed to continuing her legacy and traditions with a servant’s heart, just as she did throughout her life.
In addition to her parents, Evon was preceded in death by the father of her children and devoted husband of many years, Samuel “Wilburn” McGowan. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Carolyn Higby.
A special thank you to her Springhill Hospice team, especially Nurse Susan. As well as her Pulmonologist, Dr. Virginia Radcliff and Nurse Christy and Dr. Shameer Abrahim, MD and Nurse Tangela. Your steady guidance during this extremely difficult journey has been monumental for our family.
The family will welcome extended family and friends for visitation on October 25th, 2025 from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Service begins in the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home on Dauphin Street Mobile, Alabama at 1:00 PM and is officiated by Bro. Randy Johnson. A graveside service to follow at Wolf Ridge Cemetery. Evon’s grandsons will serve as pallbearers; Zach Binch, Cody McGowan, Nick Fresolone, Kyle Carpenter, Blake Carpenter and Trent Carpenter.
Flowers are welcomed but if you are looking for an alternative to flowers, contributions are appreciated and may be made in Evon’s honor to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation: https://www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org/get-involved/ways-to-give/tribute-program
