Hortense Eliza May Yates was born on August 14, 1935 to Eddie Yates and Judy Bell May in Livingston, Alabama. Hortense professed a hope in Christ at a early age. While living in Livingston, Hortense met Mr. Leo Ross and from this union two children were born; Yvonne M. and Felix J. Hortense moved to Springfield, Ohio where she was employed with several businesses before moving into the nursing field. Hortense united with Mt. Zion Baptist Church where she sang in the Senior Choir and was a member of Amelia Young Circle #1. Hortense united in Holy Matrimony to Mr. James A Carpenter in the 80's. They enjoyed a beautiful marital bliss until his passing. Hortense moved to Indianapolis, Indiana to care for her son, Felix after he was released from the hospital. She attempted to move back to Springfield several times, but after the death of her daughter, Yvonne, she stayed to help raise her two young grandchildren, Dawn and Dominic, along with the help of their older sister, Shon. Hortense united with Christ Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Melvin B. Girton, Sr., where she remained until moving her membership to Solid Word Bible Church under the leadership of Pastor M. Troy Smith with her granddaughter, Shon. Hortense was overjoyed when she was honored on Seasoned Saints Day as a member of the Seasoned Saints. "Dea", as she was fondly called by her children, family members, and friends, was a fantastic cook and enjoyed preparing many dinners for family and friends in both Ohio and Indiana. "Dea" was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend who will be sorely missed by all who know and loved her. Hortense Eliza May Yates Carpenter departed this life on Thursday, July 10, 2015 at the age of 79. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, James A. Carpenter, Sr.; daughter, Yvonne M. Ross Vance; stepchildren, James A. Carpenter, Jr. and Michelle "Mickey" Carpenter. "Dea" leaves to cherish her memory: son, Felix J. Ross; grandchildren, Shenevelyn R. Ross, Dawn N. Ross, and Dominic A. Ross; great-grandson, Ellis D. Price; god-grandson, Alfred D. "AJ" Harvey Jr.; and adopted son, Kevin E. Hunt, all of Indianapolis, Indiana; brothers, Ralph C. Yates, Eddie Yates both of Dayton, Ohio, and Larry (Jerlinda) Yates of Epes, Alabama; sisters, Surlester Boykin of Bessemer, Alabama and Carolyn Yates of Washington, D.C.; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

Cemetery Details