Harold Keith Carpenter's Obituary
Harold Keith Carpenter, beloved husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and
community pila, vas called home to be with t e Lord on Tuesday July 2,
2025. He passed peacefully in the home he built, surrounded by those he
loved most, just as he wished.
Born September 7, 1961, in Jackson, Mississippi, Hal, as he was affectionately
called, proudly lived his life in the heart of the Georgetown community. The first child of Shirley Johnson and Thomas Anderson, Hal's life was defined by his unwavering faith, generosity, and profound love for others. To know him was to love him.
From an early age, Harold embraced his faith at St. John's Missionary Baptist Church and later became a devoted member of New Hope Baptist Church. His walk with God was illuminated by service and sincerity, and he was ordained as a deacon in December 1992, with his commitment to ministry evident in every interaction.
A proud graduate of Lanier High School, Class of 1979, Harold continued his education at Utica Junior College and Jackson State University. On December 20, 1986, Harold married the love of his life, Cheryl Thomas. She was the apple of his eye, and together they built a life that radiated faith, joy, and family. Their union was blessed with three cherished daughters: Ashley Elizabeth Molden, Victoria Amber Carpenter, and Oriana Simone Carpenter. The Carpenter family, rooted deeply in love and worship, are lifelong members of New Hope Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Dr. Jerry Young.
His dedication to providing for his family and serving his community led him to a long and varied career, beginning at McGraw Rental and continuing through 37 years in multiple roles at UPS. Additionally, he stood faithfully beside his wife as a devoted supporter and partner in her successful baking business.
A natural leader and generous soul, Harold was known for his gift of connection. Never meeting a stranger, Hal served as a mentor to countless young men, guiding them toward purpose and strength.
Whether sorting packages in the twilight hours, manicuring lawns across metro Jackson, or simply offering a listening ear, Hal created spaces of grace for those in need. He was, for many, a soft landing during hard times.
Baseball was a joy to Harold. In high school, he was recognized as an American High School Athlete in 1977-1978. This distinction was bestowed upon athletes who exhibited outstanding achievement in athletic performance and sportsmanship. He went on to play second basemen for Utica Junior College. His impact led the UJC baseball team to win its first championship in school history in 1981. As a testament to his dedication and love for the game of baseball, Hal was inducted into the Sports Hall of Fame at Utica Junior College for being an exceptional 2d baseman. This was a fitting tribute for a man whose life exemplified service, love, and excellence.
Above all, Hal was a devoted "girl dad," overjoyed by the arrival of his grandsons: Charles Lonnie Molden, III "Trey" and Carter Keith Molden. Known to them lovingly as "Pops," he instilled strength, joy, and unconditional love in every moment shared.
Harold was preceded in death by his grandparents Alma and Mornett Carpenter, his father Thomas Anderson (Shelia Anderson), and his sister Nina Mack.
His legacy will live on through his loving wife, Cheryl Carpenter; his daughters Ashley Molden (LJ), Victoria Carpenter, and Oriana Carpenter; grandsons Trey and Carter Molden. He is also remembered with love by his mother, Shirley Johnson "Momma Mia"; sisters Shonda Bashir and Tina Mack; aunts Kate Francis Bimbo, Barbara Ann Hilliard, and Betty Jean Watson; uncles Robert "Bobby ed" Anderson (Rita) and Jim Carpenter (Delaris) of Coral Gables, Florida; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, colleagues, mentees, and friends whose lives he touched in countless ways.
Hal's presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will remain a guiding light for all who had the privilege of knowing him.
What’s your fondest memory of Harold?
What’s a lesson you learned from Harold?
Share a story where Harold's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Harold you’ll never forget.
How did Harold make you smile?
