Lena Carpenter

December 1, 1937- August 30, 2026

Lena Carpenter passed away peacefully on August 30, 2026, at the age of 88.

She was born on December 1, 1937, in Lake Charles, LA to parents, Sam and Mary Lupo. She spent most of her adult life in Houston and New Caney, Texas.

Lena grew up in the good ole days of the 1940’s and 1950’s back in Lake Charles, LA. The days of unlocked doors, no T.V., no air conditioning, and not even a telephone until she was a teenager. After completing chores, Lena and her siblings would engage in outdoor activities at Gosport Recreational Center (THE PARK). After she got her driver’s license, she would “haul” her baby brother and his friends around to the skating rink, the beach, or just riding around listening to the music.

Her family was her entire purpose. We grew up with very little, but we never realized what we lacked because her love made our lives feel so full. As a grandmother, she was her grandchildren's ultimate fan, cheerleader, and fundraiser supporter. She never missed a beat, attending Melanie’s halftime performances at football games and other band functions, as well as Kollin’s countless baseball practices and games.

Beyond cheering them on from the sidelines, she cherished the quiet moments they shared. They loved going to lunch and catching movies together, but her favorite times were spent at home playing board games, cards, and watching Disney movies. Ultimately, she was their greatest champion—not just in school and activities, but in life.

Lena’s passion for Houston sports ran deep, but nothing compared to her love for the Houston Astros. Whether she was cheering from the stadium seats or watching from home, game days were always a family affair, completely filled with lively debates over every single call made against her beloved team.

She is survived by her daughter, Dana Carpenter Baker and her husband Kevin; her son, Keith Carpenter and his wife Amy; her grandchildren, Melanie Carpenter (and Aaron Smith) and Kollin Baker; and her great-grandchildren, Hazel Smith and Oliver Smith.

Her brother Lawrence Lupo and his wife Maria. Her nephew Christian Lupo and his wife Pam. Her niece Gina Lupo Murphy and her husband Guy. Her great nephews Kai and Gage Lupo and John Murphy. Her great nieces Ali Murphy and Kati Murphy LaVergne and her husband Brock.

She was preceded in death by her children, Mark Joseph Carpenter and Rae Ann Carpenter; her great-grandson, Baby Eli Smith; her parents, Sam and Mary Scalisi Lupo; and her sisters, Josephine and Marie Lupo.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone for their expressions of love and support during this difficult time. They would like to offer a special thanks to Ms. Casandra, Mr. Chris, Ms. Jo, Ms. Sandy, Mr Joseph and the many other dedicated staff members at Kingwood Rehabilitation and Healthcare."