Donnell Carpenter

Donnell Carpenter, of Piscataway, NJ quietly transitioned to his heavenly home, safely in God’s arms on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at Aviate Rehab.  Thank you, God, for blessing him with 73 years of life.

Donnell was born in Zebulon, North Carolina, to Emma Gordon on October 16, 1952.  His family moved to New Jersey at an early age where he attended South River school system. After graduating from High School, he joined the Navy and after his term of 2 years was honorably discharged returning home to South River, NJ.  We thank him for his service to his country.  Coca Cola is where he worked for most of his life until his retirement approximately 20 years ago. 

He considered himself to be a food connoisseur.  Donnell always liked finding new restaurants to try out and critique.  If he thought that a restaurant had exceptional dishes, he would use all his energy to convince you to go and try it out to get your opinion.  In most cases he was right.  Eating was one of his favorite pastimes. He also enjoyed bicycle riding. He would ride from South River to surrounding towns and as far as Atlantic City.

Donnell was an active member at his church, St Bartholomew in East Brunswick, New Jersey. Donnell faithfully attended church early most Sunday mornings and constantly enjoyed conversations with anyone regarding building relationships with God.  One of his most enjoyable clubs he joined was the St Bartholomew Knights of Columbus Council 11873. As an active member of the St. Bartholomew Knights of Columbus, he achieved his 1st Degree in June 2005.  In November 2007, he was elevated through exemplification to the honor of the Fourth Degree as Sir Knight Donnell Carpenter. 

Donnell was predeceased by his father, Sam and his mother, Emma Gordon – 1 sister Barbara Jean Hudgins.

Left to cherish his precious memory are his son Donnell Carpenter Jr. (Kelly) of Jacksonville, Fla, 2 sisters, Barbara Ivery (Thomas) of Mount Laurel, NJ and Cora Gordon of Boston. MA – 2 nieces Shannon Ivery-Armas (Adan), Tanya Blanchard, 3 nephews Brian Ivery, Benjamin Hudgins and Cory Hudgins and 1 granddaughter, Emma-Grace, 1 great nephew Liam Armas and a host of family and friends.

****Repast will be held in fellowship hall – downstairs after the service****.