Shirley Smith Carpenter, 85, formerly of Church View, passed away on Thursday, Aug. 12, 2021.
She was born on Jan. 7, 1936 in Suffolk to the late Wesley and Nora Harcum Smith. She was also preceded in death by her sisters, Virginia Jenkins, Bernice Lewis, and Evelyn Harrison; and her son-in-law, Frederick Hilder Jr.
She is survived by her daughter, Cynthia Hilder; sons, Martin Shirilla (Kathy) and Charles Carpenter (Mary Jane); stepchildren, Dawn Ruple and Kenneth Carpenter; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and other cherished family members.
Shirley worked as a secretary for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, Md.; and had the demanding role of housewife as she raised her children. She later became a real estate agent. She enjoyed “antiquing adventures,” family gatherings large and small, and meeting people in all walks of life.
Visitation will be start at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 21 at the Sturtevant Funeral Home Portsmouth Boulevard Chapel, with the memorial service to follow at 3 p.m.
Mrs. Carpenter’s nephew, Mr. John Lee Lewis, former associate pastor, Foursquare Church, will lead the service.
