Rocky Mount –

Melva Turner Carpenter, age 84, passed away Saturday, February 7, 2026. She was born on October 15, 1941 in Edgecombe County to Jake and Pauline Jones Turner. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Lee Roy Turner, Pauline Joyner, Earl Turner, Billy Turner, Peggy Ellison, Freddie Turner and Betty Crooker; and special son-in-law, James Mixon.

Melva was known for her spunkiness and entertaining sense of humor. She also possessed a servant's heart that loved serving others in special ways. She put her crocheting talent and skills to work for hospitals and cancer centers, making baby hats and lap blankets. She was generous with her time and attention and always ready to help those in need. Her family was everything to her and she cherished the special bond she shared with her "Bro".

She is survived by her daughters, Donnie "Donna" Leonard Mixon and Jean Leonard Pittman (Lindy), all of Rocky Mount; brother, Ray Turner (Denise) of Pinetops; sister, Rose Marie Carroll of Rocky Mount; special friend, Paula Scarbell of Red Oak and special niece, Patsy Land of Wilmington.

Melva will also be deeply missed by her grandchildren, Spencer "JP" Luper of Rocky Mount, John David Davis (Lynn) of Battleboro and Crystal Lynn Cockrell (Mikey) of Spring Hope; great-grandchildren, Jessica Kaylee Luper, Paige Davis, Zylo Leonard and Eloa Leonard; along with several other nieces, nephews and other extended relatives.

A memorial service will be held at 4:00pm on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at Gospel Missionary Baptist Church, 8444 Town Creek Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27803. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 3:00pm.

Flowers are welcome or memorial donations may be made to Gospel Missionary Baptist Church, 8444 Town Creek Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27803.

A heartfelt word of thanks is extended to Lindy Pittman for the loving care and support for Melva and our family during the times she needed it most.