Edward Dalton Carpenter
Edward “Eddie” Dalton Carpenter, 88, of Brightwood, Virginia, a dedicated farmer who believed every creature deserved kindness, entered eternal rest on January 28, 2026. He was at home, surrounded by the love of his family.
He is preceded in death by his parents, James Alfred Carpenter and Sarah Ellen Fishback Carpenter, and his brothers James “Jimmy” Fishback Carpenter and wife Juanita, Ronald “Ronnie” Owen Carpenter and wife Anne, and John Richard Carpenter.
Eddie is survived by his devoted wife of over 60 years, Darlene Hensley Carpenter, who was his steadfast partner in life and love, and together they established Ridgeview Farm. His greatest joy was his family, and he leaves behind his two beloved daughters- Sharon Carpenter Rock and husband Chris Summers, and Dee-Dee Carpenter Graves and husband Carl Graves; his cherished grandchildren, Elizabeth Rock Breon and husband Dustin Breon, Megan Miranda Ingram, and Jon Edward Dalton Ingram; and his treasured great-grandchildren, Kendall Kaisa Ingram, Scarlett Rain Ingram, and Colton James Breon. He is also survived by his loving sisters, Doris Mae Morris and late husband Doug Morris, Donna Sue Tompkins and husband Russ, and sister-in-law Peggy Kiblinger Carpenter, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom he loved and cherished deeply.
Born in Brightwood in 1937, Eddie grew up on the farm, a hard worker who never stopped. He looked forward to spending each day outside, something that brought him great joy and satisfaction.
A graduate of Madison County High School in 1956, Eddie proudly served his country as a member of the Armed Forces of the United States, stationed in Germany for several years before his honorable discharge in 1964. He later pursued further education at the University of Virginia’s Transportation Training Academy, becoming a Right-of-Way Specialist and dedicating 35 years of loyal service to the Virginia Department of Transportation before his retirement. Afterward, he obtained his Real Estate Agent License.
Beyond his career, Eddie was a lifelong farmer whose gentle spirit and big heart were evident in the way he cared for his animals—black angus cattle, horses, chickens, rabbits, quail, dogs, and cats, and occasionally, a stray squirrel. He was known for his kindness and generosity, always ready to lend a hand, whether plowing neighbor’s driveways during winter storms, sharing his equipment and helping others with farm work, providing steers for the family to show in 4-H or offering a listening ear and wise counsel. Eddie also had a special fondness for his Ford trucks, antique Ford cars, and John Deere tractors! He especially enjoyed driving his John Deere Gator daily with Darlene and their dogs by their side, checking on the cows and simply soaking in the beauty of the farm he loved so dearly. His life was a testament to the values of hard work, humility, and compassion.
Eddie’s legacy is one of love, family, and service. His gentle presence and unwavering kindness touched countless lives, and his memory will continue to guide and inspire all who knew him. He will be remembered as a proud American, a loving husband, and the absolute best father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He will always be our “Papa.”
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the University of Virginia Hospital Emergency Room & TCV ICU doctors and staff, Madison County Emergency Communications and EMS, the Charlottesville and Madison County Police Departments, the members of Bethsaida United Methodist Church, and numerous family and friends for their care, support, and kindness during this difficult time.
A visitation with the family will be held at Preddy’s Funeral Home in Madison, VA on Thursday, February 5, 2026 from 5-7pm.
A funeral service will be held to celebrate Eddie’s life at Preddy’s Funeral Home in Madison, VA on Friday, February 6, 2026 at 11am, with burial to follow at Bethsaida United Methodist Church.
Eddie was a Bethsaida United Methodist Church Member and was involved with maintaining the Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to be sent in Eddie’s memory to the Bethsaida Cemetery (attn: Bev Brown 1005 Henrick St, Culpeper, VA 22701) or the Little Fork Volunteer Fire & Rescue Co., the only volunteer Technical Large Animal Rescue Team in the Commonwealth of Virginia (6011 Rixeyville Rd., Rixeyville, VA 22737).
The family wishes to thank Hospice of the Piedmont for the love and support given to our family.
