Delmar Lee Carpenter of Orange passed away on Thursday, April 3, 2025 at Hospice of the Piedmont in Charlottesville. Delmar was born in Madison County on August 15, 1946, and was the oldest son of the late Edgar R. Carpenter, Sr and Virginia Clore Carpenter. In addition to his parents, Delmar was predeceased by his sister, Virginia Clark.

He is survived by his brother, Edgar R. Carpenter, Jr (Margaret), sisters Mary Carpenter (Maxwell), and Frances Dodson, and by a special cousin Jerry Williams (Louise). Also surviving him are his son Ricky, daughter Lori, and grandchildren Jerry, Kristina, Ryan, and Dakotah.

Delmar is also survived by his devoted wife of forty-one years, Elaine Madison Carpenter, and his stepsons Mark Bledsoe and wife Natatia, Scott Bledsoe and wife Ann, and Chris Bledsoe and wife Kamie, along with grandchildren Nick Bledsoe (Alyssa), Kaitlin Bledsoe, Tyler Hallam (Megan), Lindsay Bledsoe (Luca), Kelsey Bledsoe (Chris), Burke Hallam (Caroline), and five great-grandchildren Hayes, Rowan, Dayton, Kayce, and Madison.

Delmar never met a stranger. He could and would talk to anyone and offer to help them in any way they needed. He was also quite adept at somehow getting others to take over doing parts of his jobs and projects, earning him the nickname “Tom Sawyer” from his wife. Most of all, Delmar was known for his big generous heart.

A heartfelt thank you to the staff in ICU and on the 3rd floor of Martha Jefferson Hospital for the excellent care provided to Delmar during his two-week stay there, and a special thank you to Dr. Lazur, and to Deveryn Bailey, Heather Wheaton, and Alexandra McGee who all provided such compassionate support to Delmar and his family. Additional appreciation is due to the staff of Hospice of the Piedmont: Brittany Brock, nurse Jessica, and all of the staff members who cared for Delmar during his final hours.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Orange County Animal Shelter, 11362 Porter Rd, Orange VA.