Carpenter, Mary J. – age 86, departed this life October 8, 2013 at Williamsburg Villas, Knoxville, TN. Preceded in death by parents, husband James R. Carpenter, Sr., sisters, Leola Wells and Blanche Littleton. She was a long time seamstress and hairdresser. She was a member of Bentley Street Christian Church where she served as a Sunday school teacher, deaconess and usher. She was also a member of the Der Wunderbar Social Club. She leaves to cherish her memory: son, James R. (Judy) Carpenter, Jr., Knoxville, TN.; daughter, Theresa (Troy) Cooper of Atlanta, GA.; granddaughter, Jessica (Prentiss) Foxx; great grandson, Prentiss Jalon Foxx (P.J.) of Murfreesboro, TN.; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Special thanks to her caretaker, Wanda McCleary and the staff of Williamsburg Villas. Family will receive friends on Friday, October 11, 2013 from 11:00 to 11:30 am with funeral services to follow at Bentley Street Christian Church with Reverend Dr. Alvin H. Smith, officiating and Reverend Arzolla Phillips Eulogist. Interment to follow at Tennessee Veterans Cemetery, 5901 Lyons View Pike. Services to conclude with full dove release. The family will assemble at 2116 Natchez Street.