of Marion, AR

August 23, 1956 - March 22, 2024

Ann Wildy Carpenter died peacefully with her daughters by her side on Thursday, March 22, 2024.

Ann was born on August 23rd, 1956 in Memphis, TN to Charles and Katherine Wheeler Wildy and raised in Etowah, Arkansas on the beloved family farm, a magical place.

In 1974, Ann graduated from Osceola High School and went on to Baylor University where she was a member of the Chi Omega sorority.

In 1980, she married her high school sweetheart and favorite guy, Scott. It was the beginning of a strong and sweet marriage that was the foundation of a beautiful life in Marion.

She served many years as a speech therapist in Marion schools where she made lifelong friends. She was a devoted member of Marion First United Methodist Church, teaching Sunday School and leading children's church for many years. She was a faithful member of the Rebekah Ruth Circle.

Ann had the distinct pleasure of working with her mother, Katherine Wheeler Wildy, in the family business, Wildwood Antiques, for 20 years. Like her mother, Ann delighted in spending time with visitors to Wildwood and made each person feel welcome. She continued to enjoy the family business in the years after the death of her mother.

Ann was kind. Gracious. Generous. She had a unique ability to connect to people in a way that was familiar and comforting from the first moment. The kind of person that shows up and helps when a friend is in need. In turn, she had a community of close friends who returned that kindness during times of illness and for those friends she was forever grateful.

Ann's greatest joy were her daughters, Katherine and Laura. She created a home full of love, humor and warmth. Throughout the years she extended that warmth to many of her daughters' friends, often inviting them to sit and visit at her kitchen table, where she made them feel valued and loved, just as if they were one of her own.

Ann's optimism and steady presence will be missed by all that knew her.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 42 years, Scott. She is survived by her daughters, Katherine (Brad) McGraw of North Little Rock, AR and Laura Carpenter of Springdale, AR and a host of dear friends. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, March 26th, 2024 at Marion United Methodist Church at 11:00, with visitation at 10:00 at the church. Memorials may be made to Marion United Methodist Church, 81 East Military Road, Marion, AR 72364 or West Cancer Center, 271 W Polk Ave, West Memphis AR, 72301.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Citizens Funeral Home
201 North Pine Street
West Memphis, AR  72303
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com