James Leonard Carpenter Jr.

James Leonard Carpenter Jr., a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 24, 2026, at the age of 69. Born on November 5, 1956, in Steubenville, Ohio, James spent his final years in Chillicothe, Ohio, where he built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

James was a devoted truck driver whose passion for the open road was rivaled only by his love for his family. He met the love of his life, Deborah Howell, through a CB radio, sparking a romance that led to a 45-year marriage filled with joy and companionship. Together, they raised a beautiful family, instilling values of kindness, humor, and resilience.

James is survived by his cherished wife, Deborah Carpenter; and his loving children: James "Jimmy" L Carpenter III, John (Becky) Carpenter, Randall Carpenter, Scott (Veronica) Bonar, Mark (Kim) Bonar, Joshua (Crystal) Bonar, and Nicholas (Rebecca) Carpenter. He was a proud grandfather to Samantha Carpenter, Avery Carpenter, Aleia (Jarod) Jackson, Nathaniel Carpenter, Brandon (Hannah) Bonar, David Bonar, Deborah Bonar, Latasha Evans, and Troy Bonar. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Jasper Carpenter, Beckett Bonar, and Aden Bonar.

James's siblings, Tony Melching, Janice Campbell, Jeff (Kimley) Carpenter, and Joyce (Jeff) Foster, along with special friends Brian (Kim) Sturgill, mourn the loss of a man who was not only a brother and friend but also a source of endless joy and laughter.

Preceded in death by his parents, James Leonard Carpenter and Goldie Margretta (Sims) Carpenter, and his brother Lester Melching, James leaves behind a family and community enriched by his presence and spirit.

James had many passions in life. He was a natural tinkerer, always working on a project in his garage. His sense of humor was legendary, often lightening the mood with a well-timed joke. An avid outdoorsman, James loved fishing, camping, and riding his motorcycle through the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee, where he found peace in the splendor of nature.

James will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His enduring legacy of love, humor, and adventure will continue to inspire those he leaves behind.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate James's life during a visitation at Haller Funeral Home & Crematory in Chillicothe, Ohio, on Friday, August 28th, 2026, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 pm and burial at Rowland Cemetery.