Mrs. Billie Kathleen Carpenter, a longtime homemaker known for her dedication to her family, passed away in Del Norte, Colo. She was born in Salida, Colo., to Mildred and Earl Ruggles on Sept. 28, 1941.
In her younger years, she was a member of Mary Martha at Sargent Community Church and taught Sunday School for many years. Billie drove school bus for the Sargent School District for 15 years. She was a talented seamstress and made many of her children, grandchildren and other family members beautiful clothes, including western shirts, bridesmaid dresses and wedding dresses.
Throughout her life, Billie's greatest joys came from caring for her children, grandchildren, lending a helping hand on the family farm, exploring nature; especially wildflowers, mountains and hummingbirds and driving around looking at wildlife with her husband Donald.
Billie is survived by her loving spouse of 64 years, Donald Carpenter, who stood by her side through thick and thin. She will be deeply missed by her children: Gregory (Kendra Burns) Carpenter, Kenneth (Carrie) Carpenter, and Shawna (Eid) Fakhouri. In addition to her immediate family, Billie leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness for her grandchildren: Nicole (Eddie) Valdez, Cody (Aleisha) Carpenter, Michelle Hathaway, Jessica (Jacob) Hathaway, Stephen Hathaway, Zachary Carpenter, Kameron Carpenter, Savannah Fakhouri, Sophia Fakhouri, Samuel Fakhouri, and her great-grandchildren Jace Quintana, Jayla Quintana, Haylee Carpenter and Kinslee Carpenter as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.
She is now reunited in heaven with her parents Mildred and Earl Ruggles, as well as her siblings Earl Eugene (Georgie) Ruggles, Francis (Floyd) Parr, June (Clyde) Mcdowell, Patty (Arnold) Funk, Bob (Sandra) Ruggles, and Glenn Ruggles.
Billie's memory will also be cherished by her surviving brother Jack (Dorothy) Ruggles and sister-in-law Terry Ruggles.
Billie will forever be remembered for the warmth she brought into the lives of all who knew her. Her nurturing spirit, unwavering love and playful personality will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have crossed paths with her.
Cremation was selected and a Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday June 22 at Hermit Lakes.
To share condolences with the family or to view a picture tribute of Billie's life, please visit www.mvmortuary.com. Mountain Valley Mortuary, 504 4th Avenue, Monte Vista, is in charge of arrangements.
