Flave Carpenter spent his lifetime dedicated to his family, his community and his country. He was born in Clark County and his affinity for the region he called home can be measured by the enormous contributions he made to all the people and organizations he championed throughout his long life. He lived life to the fullest and would always say yes when he was called upon to help.

   Flave Carpenter spent 28 years serving in the military, which encompassed tours in World War II and Korea where he was honored with multiple decorations including two Purple Hearts, two Bronze Stars and a Silver Star. Upon retirement, he returned to Arkadelphia where he took his enthusiasm for serving his country and shifted it into public service. Over the years, he gave everything he had to the city of Arkadelphia and Clark County by serving as the Executive Director of several local businesses and organizations. He was appointed by then-Governor Dale Bumpers to the Arkansas Parks and Recreation Commission and was later elected Chairman of the Arkansas Chamber of Commerce Directors. His passion for public service was rewarded in 1984 when then-Governor Bill Clinton inducted him into the Arkansas Parks and Tourism Hall of Fame. In 2002, he received the esteemed Lifetime Leadership in Economic Development recognition by the Arkansas Economic Developers.

   In addition to his civic leadership, Flave Carpenter was also a man of devout faith. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church where he served as deacon and elder. He also enjoyed the outdoors and the camaraderie that came with hunting, experiencing nature and the numerous recreational opportunities the State of Arkansas offered.

   I send my deepest condolences to his three children, Diane McKenzie of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Jan Davis of Brazil, South America, and Flave Carpenter Jr., of Searcy; his sister Carolyn Jane Berry of Arkadelphia; and to his numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends. Flave Carpenter will be greatly missed in Arkadelphia, Clark County and throughout the state of Arkansas, and I am truly saddened by this loss.