Harold Ronnie “Ron” Carpenter, age 80, of Shiloh, died peacefully early Sunday morning, October 11, 2026 at his home.
Ron was born May 13, 1946 in Shelby, the son of the late Henry and Mary Maxine (Link) Carpenter. A 1964 graduate of Shelby High School, Ron began his career with Ohio Seamless Tube Company in 1965. His strong work ethic and dedication were evident throughout his nearly 42 years of employment at the Tuby, retiring in June of 2007 under the ArcelorMittal ownership.
On July 4, 1990, Ron married Darlene (Tackett) Carpenter, and together they shared more than 36 years of marriage. Ron loved spending time with his wife and family, especially watching his grandchildren participate in sports and other activities. He was a familiar face at ballgames, always happy to be there cheering them on. Ron and Darlene were members of Core Community Church in Shelby, where he enjoyed attending services alongside his wife. He also enjoyed cuddling with his beloved dachshund, Daisy.
In his younger years, Ron enjoyed country music and was an avid CB radio enthusiast. He, along with his brother Gilbert and their friend Grover Gregory, were members of a CB club, making plenty of memories and friendships along the way.
Ron was a man who could figure out just about anything. Known as the ultimate researcher, his approach to a challenge was often a simple, “Let’s look it up.” He believed there was always something new to learn and was never one to stop learning, advice he shared and instilled in his family.
Equally memorable was Ron’s sense of humor. He enjoyed a good laugh and had a way of bringing humor into everyday life. He was also well known for his famous baked beans, a family and friend favorite that became something of his signature dish. Whether he was cooking, figuring out how to fix something, or simply spending time with those he loved, Ron was happiest surrounded by family.
Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Darlene; children: Loretta Branham, Rhonda Arredondo, Missy Carpenter, and Ryan (Jacquie) Francis; grandchildren: Josh Carpenter, Kirsteen Marshall, Kaitlyn Arredondo, Deborah Arredondo, Rebekah Arredondo, Micah Arredondo, Hallie (Dan) Dawson, Austin (Lauren) Francis, Raylin Francis, and Layne Francis; great-grandchildren: Baylie, Levi, Raynor, Landon, Kai, Ayden, Allie, AmaLee, Danny Jr., Donnie, and Scottie; great-great-granddaughter: Malayiah; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. In addition to his parents, Ron was preceded in death by his son: Eddie Francis, Jr.; and brothers: Gilbert Lee Carpenter and Charles Ray Carpenter.
Ron’s family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to Dr. Das and the nurses at Cleveland Clinic in Mansfield for their compassionate care, as well as to his favorite family medicine practitioner, Charlie Davis, PA-C, for the care, kindness, and friendship provided to Ron throughout his medical journey.
Family and friends are welcome on Wednesday, October 14, 2026 from 4-7 pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby, where funeral services will be held on Thursday, October 15, 2026 at 11 am with Pastor Ben Carver officiating. Guests are also welcome to visit one hour prior to the funeral on Thursday from 10-11 am. For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to Core Community Church or the Richland County Humane Society.
Condolences may be left on Ron’s obituary on the funeral home’s website (www.PenwellFuneralHome.com) or Facebook page.
Funeral Home: Penwell Funeral Home
Website: www.PenwellFuneralHome.com