Services for Leigh Carpenter, 70, of Prole, who passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on Wednesday, April 9, 2025 at home, will be held 11 a.m., Tuesday, April 15 at the Martensdale Community Church in Martensdale with burial following in the Webb Cemetery, Rural Norwalk.

Leigh was born on a military base in Georgia and spent her growing-up years in Des Moines, Iowa.

Leigh was the oldest daughter of Don and Coleen Phillips and a graduate of Lincoln High School in Des Moines, IA. In 1972, she married the love of her life, Don Carpenter, and together they built a beautiful life on the firm foundation of Jesus Christ.

A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Leigh poured her heart into raising her children as a homeschool mom and homemaker. After her children were grown, she pursued a new passion by earning her realtor's license and helping others find their homes.

Leigh had a love for the simple joys of life. She especially enjoyed bird watching and watercolor painting, often capturing the beauty she saw in nature through her artwork. She was known for her love of the color red—especially her beloved red Mini Cooper that brought her so much joy.

Leigh was a woman who appreciated meaningful moments—she treasured tea times with her dear friends, whether in their favorite local spots or during memorable visits to London. Her deep appreciation for British culture often shaped her reading list and her conversations.

One of her most cherished traditions was taking her grandchildren out for their birthdays, letting them pick out unique gifts and making memories that will last a lifetime

Leigh was a faithful member of Martensdale Community Church, where she found joy and purpose in her community. She especially treasured the relationships she built in her women's Bible study group and made a lasting impact by offering wisdom and guidance to younger women on topics such as marriage, motherhood, and life.

Leigh is survived by her loving husband, Don; her children, Ben (Jaime) Carpenter, Sarah (Lance) Foster, Zeb (Mary) Carpenter, and Ethan (Liz) Carpenter; her grandchildren, Rachael Carpenter, Daniel (Abby) Carpenter, Aaron Carpenter, Anna Carpenter, Madalyn Carpenter, Austin (Courtney) Talley, Cody Talley, Zemairah Carpenter, Ezekiel Carpenter, Noah Carpenter, Mathias Carpenter, and Reese Carpenter; and her great-grandchild, Taylor Talley.

She is also survived by her mother, Colleen Phillips; siblings, Mike (Karen) Phillips, Donnie Phillips, and Ted (Deb) Phillips; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. Leigh was preceded in death by her father, Donald Phillips.

Visitation will be held 4 to 7 p.m., Monday, April 14 at the Martensdale Community Church where family will be present to greet friends. Memorials may be given to the Martensdale Community Church in Leigh's memory.