Mark Carpenter

Mark Christopher Carpenter, 57, of Lillian, AL, passed away peacefully at his home on July 25, 2025. Mark was born on July 3, 1968, in Columbus, OH, the son of Dixie (Johnson) and Blaine Carpenter. He graduated from Reynoldsburg High School in 1987. That same year, Mark joined the United States Air Force, where he served with honor until his discharge in 1992 at the rank of Sergeant. A member of the Security Forces, he served during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Mark was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal for his work on the personal protective detail for CENTCOM Commander General Schwarzkopf. During his five years of service, he also earned the National Defense Medal, the Kuwait Liberation Medal, the Marksmanship Medal, the Southwest Asia Service Medal, and was part of a unit recognized with the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Valor. After an 18-year courtship, Mark married Melanie Pfaff on May 16, 2025, in Lillian, AL. Mark worked in generator maintenance for Escambia County Facilities Management in Pensacola, FL. He was hired after a seven-year search for the right person to fill a vital role—and from day one, it was clear they had found the perfect fit. Mark was deeply respected by his peers and known for his generosity, his willingness to help others, and his gift for teaching. Even with a demanding workload, he always made time to support those around him. He was not only an invaluable asset to the department, but also a dear friend. Mark will be greatly missed by all whose lives he touched. A proud fan of the OSU Buckeyes and a hopeful believer in a future Cowboys Super Bowl, Mark loved sports, storytelling, and helping others without ever expecting anything in return. He was a dedicated member and leader at the Lillian Community Club, where he served on the Board of Directors for four years, including two as President during the challenging COVID era. Mark mentored numerous board members, past and present, and was always willing to share his experience and wisdom. He also fearlessly led the crew behind the LCC’s beloved July 4th fireworks display—and contributed to much more behind the scenes. Mark is survived by his wife, Melanie, and her daughter, Stephanie (Jon); his daughters, Kayla and Brittany (Doug); grandchildren, Ryder, Norah, Kaiden, Camren, Gunner, and Baylin; his mother, Dixie; brothers, Tom (Linda), Jeff (Kelle), Daniel (Michelle), David (Madea), Scott (Debbie), and Russ (Candace); sisters, Debbie (George), Tina (Rick), and Angie; and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Blaine; his sister, Amy; his niece, Ashley; and his nephew, Garon. A Celebration of Life will be held on August 23, 2025, at 3 p.m. at the Lillian Community Club in Lillian, AL.

Mark Carpenter

July 25, 2025

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Mark Carpenter

July 25, 2025

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

Plan Ahead

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information

Obituary Notification