James Carpenter

James "Crip" Marshall Carpenter, 94, of Colonial Heights passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 9, 2018. Born September 25, 1923, he was the son of the late James Jackson and Eunice Olivia Carpenter, and was also preceded in death by his brother, McQuiston "Mac" Carpenter; and sister, Bettie Virginia Slaughter. He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Hilda "Polly" Carpenter; daughter, Brenda Carpenter Spain and husband, Kenny; sister-in-law, Joyce Handschuh; special friends, Jean and Rick, Steve, Jake, Stacy, Jackie and Johnny; and numerous nieces and nephews. Crip was an automotive painter and after retiring from Petersburg Ford in the 1970s, he opened his own painting business, where he furthered his reputation as the best automobile painter in the Tri Cities area. Racing fans will remember examples of his skill when they viewed Lennie Pond's race car, which won the Best Looks Award in 1972 at Martinsville. Crip was also known in this area for his love of baseball, which began in the 1930s and continued until the mid-1960s. He signed with the St. Louis Cardinals Farm League in 1945 and was then called to serve his country in the United States Army later that year. Upon returning civilian life he continued to play baseball for local teams like the Petersburg Generals and the Ettrick Chiefs. As his baseball career came to a close, he continued as an avid bowler and began a new role as a golfer. He never missed a local tournament at Brickwood or Lee Park and played in numerous Virginia State Opens all over the state. In his golden years, he and Polly supported the new Petersburg Generals each season. He also had a love of country music and hosted many musical evenings at his home over the years. The interest continued to recent years, sharing weekly sessions at the local Hardees with many new friends, Debbie, Alabama and Betty to name a few. Crip we will miss your big smile and friendly ways, no one was ever a stranger to you. The family would like to give a special thanks to Hospice of Virginia, his nurse, Heather, as well as Crater Community Hospice and the staff at Colonial Heights Health Care for their extraordinary care of Mr. Carpenter during his time with them. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Colonial Heights Fire and EMS, 100 Highland Avenue, Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834. Condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.