Austin Scott Carpenter, a remarkable individual whose life was a testament to kindness, hard work, and a profound love for others, passed away peacefully at his home in Harrisonburg, Virginia, on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, following a brief illness. Born on November 22, 1992, in Charlottesville, Virginia, Austin was 32 years old and left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
Austin’s early years were spent in Louisa County, where he grew up surrounded by a loving family. He was the beloved son of Jim and Paige Carpenter and a cherished brother to Claire Allen and Collin Carpenter. Austin’s close-knit family also included his paternal grandfather, Robert “Bobby Lee” Johnson, who he lovingly referred to as “Papa.”
The ties within the Carpenter family were strengthened by the presence of extended family members, including his uncles Jim Weaver, William Carpenter, and Tim Carpenter; his aunt Debbie Carpenter and her husband, James Fazio; and cousins Brad Weaver, Hunter Weaver, Jessie DiMeglio, and Sarah Boyd.
Austin’s life was also shaped by the memory of those who preceded him in death. He carried the legacies of his grandmothers, Phyllis Waugh Johnson and Evelyn Deane Carpenter, and his grandfather, Sanford Rea Carpenter. He was deeply influenced by the warmth and love of his late aunt, Karen Johnson Weaver, and cherished the memories of his beloved dog, Lunchbox, who was his loyal companion for many years.
A proud graduate of Louisa County High School in 2011, Austin went on to achieve academic success at James Madison University. At JMU, he cultivated a spirit of intellectual curiosity and a deep commitment to making a difference in the world. His time at the university was marked by lifelong friendships and a growing passion for community service, which became a cornerstone of his professional and personal life.
Austin was a successful businessman, but his true calling lay in giving back to others. He dedicated much of his time and resources to charitable endeavors, particularly those focused on animals and vulnerable individuals. Through his partnerships with organizations like The Pawerful Rescue, Austin worked tirelessly to support animal welfare initiatives.
His compassionate heart extended beyond his business interests as he consistently sought ways to help those in need. Whether through financial contributions, hands-on volunteering, or simply offering a listening ear, Austin’s generosity knew no bounds.
Despite his professional achievements, Austin will be best remembered for his infectious smile and laughter, which could brighten even the darkest of days. His family fondly recalls his ability to connect with people on a deeply personal level, leaving lasting impressions with his kindness, humor, and authenticity. Austin had a unique way of making everyone feel seen and valued, a rare gift that will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
