Eva Genell Gray Carpenter, 93, entered her Heavenly home on Friday, March 20, 2026. She was born on December 19, 1933, to Luther and Lucy Whittaker Gray. Eva lived a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, resilience, and unwavering devotion to her family.
Services for Mrs. Carpenter will be Friday, March 27th, at McMillian Funeral Home in Booneville, MS. Visitation will begin at 12 p.m. with funeral service to follow at 2 p.m. Her beloved grandson, Tyler Wilson, will officiate the service.
Known to many as “Mrs. Eva,” “Mrs. C,” or “Mrs. Carpenter,” she was most cherished by those closest to her as “Mamaw C”—a title she wore with pride and love for generations.
On August 26, 1949, she married the love of her life, Claynous Arvard “C.A.” Carpenter. Together, they shared 61 beautiful years of marriage and built a life rooted in faith, hard work, and family. The two spent time traveling before settling in Booneville, Mississippi, where he built their family home—a place that became the heart of countless memories spanning five generations. From fishing and gardening to baking and shelling peas on the back porch, their home was always full of life and love.
Eva was the very definition of what a grandmother should be—and so much more. She was a place of comfort, a steady presence, and a source of unconditional love. Her home was always open, her table always full, and her heart always ready to welcome anyone. She made the best chicken and dumplings, never let anyone leave empty-handed, and was known for slipping an extra $20 to her grandchildren as they came and went.
She loved her family fiercely and faithfully—through every season of life. She spent summers watching her grandchildren fish, preparing meals, and making sure everyone was cared for. She cherished trips to the mountains, time spent at church conventions with her husband, and holidays—especially Thanksgiving, when her traditional red velvet cake was a staple.
Eva’s love extended far beyond childhood. She continued to nurture and support her family in profound ways—offering her home and a hot meal to anyone during their time of need. She always showed up for life’s biggest moments. Her presence was constant, her love unwavering.
Though small in stature, Eva was full of grit and strength. She taught her family the true meaning of grace, perseverance, and unconditional love. Her legacy is one of faith, generosity, and the kind of love that creates a sense of “home” that lasts a lifetime.
She is survived by her children, Brenda (Gary) Langley, Jerry Carpenter, and Kenny Carpenter; her grandchildren, Marta Wilson and Josh (Amanda) Langley; her great-grandchildren, Taylor (Evan) Johnson, Lakin Wilson (Brent), Tyler (Haley) Wilson, Luke (Cayla) Wilson, Noah Langley, and Hudson Langley; her great-great-grandchildren, Cade Wilson, Stella Wilson, Grayson Parker, Mary Camryn Wilson, Marleigh Johnson, Eden Johnson, Everett Johnson, Salem McVey, Kyndell Champion, Cross Wilson, and Chapel Wilson; and a host of nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, C.A. Carpenter; her parents, Luther and Lucy Gray; three sisters; four brothers; daughter-in-law, Donna Carpenter; grandson, Zachary Carpenter; and her granddaughter's husband, Randy Wilson.
Pallbearers will be Josh Langley, Brent Grimes, Evan Johnson, Tyler Wilson, Luke Wilson, Cade Wilson, Noah Langley, and Hudson Langley.
Eva’s life was a blessing, her love a gift, and her legacy will live on through every generation she helped shape.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to LeBonheur Children’s Hospital, where Mrs. Eva was a proud Gold Sponsor.
