Joy Carpenter

Joy Lynn Carpenter left her earthly body on March 2, 2026, in Billings, MT. She is once again whole and able-bodied after a long struggle with multiple system atrophy (MSA). While we are relieved her struggle is over, we miss her deeply already.

Joy was born June 5, 1949, to George and Jo Thormahlen in Billings, MT. The family resided in the Fromberg area and grew to include her two brothers. Joy moved to Billings after high school and attended Eastern Montana College.

Joy married her husband, Scott Carpenter, in 1972. They lived in Billings, MT, and welcomed three children. Joy held various jobs over the years, including seasonal work in tax preparation and bookkeeping. She retired from Kings Ace Hardware in 2003, where she worked as the office manager for several years.

Together, she and Scott enjoyed many adventures and travels, particularly their drives in “The General” through the mountains of Arizona and Montana. They also cherished time with their six grandchildren, making trips for birthdays, games, performances, and back-to-school shopping.

Joy was an avid reader who enjoyed gardening, jewelry making, and long drives through the country roads of Montana. Her faith was a big part of her life, and she remained devoted to her daily devotionals and found peace in gospel music right up until the end. Although petite in size, Joy had a huge heart and cared deeply for everyone she knew. She amazed us all with her strength and resilience as she faced one health complication after another over the last several years.

Joy was preceded in death by her parents, George and Jo Thormahlen, and her grandson, James Hildebrand.

She is survived by her husband, Scott Carpenter; daughters Shari Lutgen (Senit) and Cami Hildebrand (David); son Kevin Carpenter (Christy); grandchildren Kaitlynn, Kalani, and Brooke Hildebrand; Tyler Lutgen; and Ally and Cody Carpenter; and brothers Elden and Dennis Thormahlen.