Fulton County’s oldest living native American, Mrs. Edna P. Carpenter, 104 years 1 month 23 days, departed this life at 7:31 a.m. Jan. 1, 2017, at the home of her daughter.

Born Nov. 9, 1912 in Newton County, Edna Pearl Howell was the cherished daughter of Adolphus and Eva Hildreth Howell. Growing up she shared her childhood with a sister Alma and a brother Glen.

In Morocco, on June 11, 1931 Edna married the love of her life Mr. Chester Ray Carpenter. They enjoyed over 78 years of life’s adventures. From their union came four daughters and two sons.  Over the years, Edna’s family tree flourished  with the added blessings of 17 grandchildren, 39 great grandchildren and ten great-great grandchildren.

Left to cherish Edna’s memory are two daughters: Joan C. McClellan and husband Roy; and Linda S. Town and husband Ron, of Elkhart; a son: Jim W. Carpenter and wife Patsy of Rochester; and a son, Jim W. Carpenter and wife Patsy of Rochester. Grandma Carpenter will also be missed by her loving 17 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren and ten great-great grandchildren, all who adored her.

Edna was predeceased by two daughters: Marion Frances Carpenter, Naomi Furnivall; a son Dale R. Carpenter; a son-in-law Donald Furnivall; three grandsons: Randy Furnivall, William Ray Carpenter, Bobby Carpenter; one great grandson, Vincent Wayne Carpenter Jr.; one great-great granddaughter, Liberty Bartrum; a sister, Alma Pauline Town; and a brother, Glen Howell.

Pastor Thad Stewart will officiate services.  Burial will follow in Rochester’s IOOF Cemetery where she will be laid to eternal rest next to her beloved husband Chester Ray “Chief” Carpenter.