Stella Carpenter, 63, of Sweet Home passed away peacefully February 11, 2011 at her home, surrounded by family and friends after an extended illness.

Stella was born March 14, 1947 in Knoxville, Tennesee to George F. and Sarah (Gallia) Hayes. She spent her childhood years in Willamina and Vernonia, Oregon. Stella graduated from Sweet Home High School where she met her husband, Roy, in the summer of 1964. They were married March 27, 1965 in Sweet Home.

Stella enjoyed working for Collins Kids Day Care and later provided day care from her home. The children brought great joy to her heart and soul. She really loved them.

Stella loved horseback riding on her beloved horse, “Princess Marie Antoinette,” a beautiful Appaloosa brood mare. She would ride rain or shine! Her craftwork, gardening, and growing flowers gave her a way to express herself, and it was all first class.

Survivors, in addition to her husband, Roy, include: her son, Michael (and wife, Angela) Carpenter; daughter, Michelle Carpenter; grandsons, Jon, Christopher, Justin, and Kyle; brothers, Melvin, Lee, Rodney, and Dennis Hayes; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Sheri and Betsy Hayes.

Funeral services will be conducted 11:00 AM Saturday, February 19, at Ames Creek Community Chapel. Committal services will follow at Gilliland Cemetery.

Viewing will be from 3:00 to 7:00 PM Friday at Sweet Home Funeral Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, her family suggests a contribution to help with funeral expenses; in care of Sweet Home Funeral Chapel.

Sweet Home Funeral Chapel is handling arrangements.