The Harrisonburg community and beyond are mourning the loss of Austin Scott Carpenter, who passed away on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at the age of 32. After a brief illness, Austin left this world peacefully at his home, surrounded by family and the love he so freely gave. Born on November 22, 1992, in Charlottesville, Virginia, Austin’s life was one of compassion, dedication, and a strong commitment to bettering the lives of others.
Austin’s immediate family, including his parents Jim and Paige Carpenter, his sister Claire Allen, his brother Collin Carpenter, and his Papa Robert “Bobby Lee” Johnson, are left to carry on his memory. He is also survived by numerous extended family members, including his uncle Jim Weaver, cousins Brad and Hunter Weaver, and his aunt Debbie Carpenter and her husband James Fazio.
Austin’s love for his family was a cornerstone of his life, and he found joy in every moment spent with them. He was preceded in death by his grandmothers, Phyllis Waugh Johnson and Evelyn Deane Carpenter, his grandfather Sanford Rea Carpenter, and his aunt Karen Johnson Weaver.
A proud graduate of Louisa County High School in 2011, Austin went on to earn his degree from James Madison University. He became a successful businessman, but his true passion lay in his philanthropic efforts. Austin worked tirelessly with charitable organizations such as The Pawerful Rescue, where he played an integral role in helping animals and people in need.
His generosity knew no bounds, and his commitment to giving back made a lasting impact on those around him. In a final act of remembrance, Austin’s family asks that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to a charitable organization of your choice. They hope that these donations will carry forward the work that was so close to Austin’s heart.
Friends and family are invited to a graveside service to celebrate Austin’s life, which will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, December 22, 2024, at Hillcrest Cemetery in Louisa, Virginia. As we gather to honor Austin, let us cherish the laughter, love, and light he brought into our lives and remember him for the beautiful, kind soul he was.
