WILMINGTON — Melissa Carpenter Auten passed away on October 1, 2026, at the age of 58.
Born on November 14, 1967, in Enterprise, Alabama, Melissa was the daughter of Sandra Williams and Randall Carpenter. A tomboy at heart from an early age, she grew up with a love for horses and especially enjoyed riding them.
Melissa shared her life with her husband, John Wayne Auten. Together for 24 years and married for 14, they built a life and family filled with many memories and adventures.
Melissa was a loving mother to her five children, Krissen, Christopher, Zach, John Jr., and Rollie, and the very proud Mimi to eight grandchildren. Her love extended far beyond her immediate family. She was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, and being surrounded by the people she loved was one of the greatest joys of her life. Spoiling her grandchildren, nieces, and nephews came naturally to Missy and was one of the many ways she showed her love.
Melissa loved to travel, with the mountains holding a particularly special place in her heart. She traveled to nearly every state in the country and loved discovering what made each place unique. Whether it was a local landmark, an unusual attraction, or something special tucked away in a small town, Melissa wanted to experience what made every stop along the way memorable.
Among the relationships Melissa treasured was the lifelong friendship she shared with her best friend, Teresa, lovingly known to Melissa as “TT.” Their friendship spanned nearly Melissa’s entire life, creating decades of memories and a bond that remained deeply important to her.
Melissa will be remembered for her adventurous spirit, her love for her family, and the many memories she created with those fortunate enough to know her. Her greatest legacy lives on in the family she loved so deeply and in the stories and memories they will continue to share.
She will be deeply missed and forever loved.
