Elizabeth Willis Carper was born on May 25, 1921, in Benton, Louisiana, and was the ninth of twelve children born to Mary “Goldie” Willis and “Bill” Willis. She attended Benton Colored School, where she received her early education.
At the tender age of seven, Elizabeth accepted Christ into her life and was baptized at Elizabeth Baptist Church in Benton, Louisiana, where she became a member. Her love for God was evident in the way she lived her life. Elizabeth was a woman of strong faith who never hesitated to speak about the goodness of Jesus. She often spoke His name, giving Him praise and acknowledging His presence in her life. She also made it a priority to take children and others to church, sharing her love for the Lord and encouraging them to develop a relationship with Him.
Elizabeth didn't just speak about her faith; she lived it through her kindness, generosity, and the love she showed to everyone who crossed her path. Elizabeth was united in marriage to Hardy Carper. She spent many years living in Shreveport, Louisiana, before returning to her hometown of Benton in the 1970s. A hardworking and dedicated woman, Elizabeth enjoyed a fulfilling career as a beautician for 37 years. Throughout those years, she built lasting relationships and touched the lives of many through her work, warm personality, and caring spirit.
After retiring from her career as a beautician, Elizabeth began another meaningful chapter of her life—caring for children. With a generous heart and a nurturing spirit, she opened her home to countless children, providing them with a safe, loving, and caring environment. Her home became a place where children were welcomed with open arms and surrounded by kindness, compassion, and a sense of belonging.
Elizabeth's love extended far beyond her immediate family. She had a special way of making every child feel valued, protected, and loved. Whether through a warm meal, a listening ear, a comforting embrace, a trip to church, or simply providing a place to call home, she made a lasting difference in the lives of those entrusted to her care. Her faith in God was the foundation of everything she did. She believed in the power of prayer, the goodness of Jesus, and the importance of showing love to others. Her home was more than a place of shelter; it was a place where love was freely given, faith was encouraged, and everyone had an opportunity to feel like family.
Elizabeth was preceded in death by her husband Hardy Carper, son Hardy Lee Carper, as well as her four brothers and seven sisters, She leaves to cherish her precious memories her beloved daughter, Mary Johnson; her son, Malachi Mohamed (Jean); along with the many children she raised as her own: Alberta Mitchell, Pamela Edwards, Jack Drew, Odette Drew, Michael Drew, Jamie Gray, Darine Gray, Diana Gray, Harvey Heads, Jeremy Dittler, Morris Buckner, Tremaneisha Thomas, and Lashonda Layton. She also leaves behind her beloved godson, Nick Burney, along with a host of grandchildren, nieces and nephews who were blessed to experience her love, kindness, and generosity.
