Longtime Newland Resident Wanda Hughes Carpenter Dies at 94

Carpenter was a devoted homemaker and member of Roaring Creek Missionary Baptist Church.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Wanda Hughes Carpenter, a 94-year-old resident of Newland, North Carolina, passed away on Sunday, February 8, 2026. Carpenter was a lifelong member of the Roaring Creek Missionary Baptist Church and was known for her quiet strength, love of home and family, and care for those around her. She is survived by her daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Wanda Hughes Carpenter's passing marks the end of an era for a longtime Newland resident who embodied the values of family, community, and faith that have defined the town for generations. Her life and legacy serve as a reminder of the importance of cherishing one's roots and honoring those who have come before.

The details

Carpenter was preceded in death by her husband, parents, siblings, and other family members. She was known as a devoted homemaker who took great joy in cooking, canning, and working in her garden. The family has expressed gratitude to the staff at The Greens and Hospice and Palliative Care of the Blue Ridge for their compassionate care of Carpenter in her final days.

  • Wanda Hughes Carpenter passed away on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
  • A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 18th, 2026 in the Upper Hughes Cemetery off of Jerry's Creek Road in Newland.

The players

Wanda Hughes Carpenter

A 94-year-old resident of Newland, North Carolina, who was a lifelong member of the Roaring Creek Missionary Baptist Church and was known for her quiet strength, love of home and family, and care for those around her.

Sherry Willis

Carpenter's daughter, who resides in Newland.

Shane Koerber

Carpenter's grandson.

Jessica Clark

Carpenter's granddaughter.

Rev. Dustin Hughes

The officiant for Carpenter's graveside service.

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What’s next

The graveside service for Wanda Hughes Carpenter will be held on Wednesday, February 18th, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. in the Upper Hughes Cemetery off of Jerry's Creek Road in Newland.

The takeaway

Wanda Hughes Carpenter's life and legacy serve as a testament to the enduring values of family, community, and faith that have long defined the town of Newland, North Carolina. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her memory will live on through the lives she touched and the traditions she upheld.