Jorene Carpenter

Jorene Turner Carpenter, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 28, at her home in Detroit, Texas. She was 83 years old.

Jorene was born on May 27, 1942, in Santa Rita, New Mexico, to Laura Elizabeth Goforth and Allton Franks Turner. She was lovingly named after her maternal Uncle Joe and her cousin Jean, a reflection of the strong family bonds that shaped her life.

On May 21, 1970, Jorene married Russell Carpenter at the First Christian Church in Plano, Texas. Their marriage was built on love, faith, and an enduring partnership. In 1974, they made their home in Detroit, Texas, where they embraced small-town life and became deeply rooted in the community.

Jorene dedicated many years of service as a school secretary at T.G. Givens, where she was known for her kindness, organization, and the caring way she supported students, staff, and families. Beyond her work, she gave generously of her time through service on numerous boards and committees throughout Red River County, including the American Cancer Society, Red River Hospital Board, Red River County Fair Board (serving as Women’s Building Superintendent), Detroit PTO (as President), and the Daughters of the American Revolution. She also served as a lay speaker. One cause especially close to her heart was Relay for Life, a reflection of her strength and journey as a breast cancer survivor.

Jorene will be remembered for her spirit, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family.

She is survived by her loving husband, Russell Carpenter; her son, David Carpenter and wife Penni; her daughter, Karen Bowmer and husband Blake, all of Detroit; her brothers, Donnie Turner and wife Susan of Silver City, New Mexico, and Jerry Turner and wife Sally of Ruidoso Downs, New Mexico; and her sisters-in-law, Carolyn Neely and Carmen Haggard of Plano, Texas. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Cole and Clara Mae Carpenter, and Blair and Cameron Bowmer.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Laura Elizabeth Goforth and Allton Franks Turner, and her son, Rusty Carpenter, Jr.

Funeral services are 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the Martin Memorial United Methodist Church with Don Shovan and Jeff Blanton officiating.  Graveside services and burial are, 2:00 p.m. at Bethany Cemetery 1313 Custer Rd. Plano, Texas under the direction of Clarksville Funeral Home.

Visitation will be an hour before service time at the church. 

Pallbearers are David and Cole Carpenter, Blake, Blair and Cameron Bowmer.

A special thank you to DeeDee Igo for her compassionate care and companionship over the past several years.

Jorene’s life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and the love she shared will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.