Naciel Carpenter's Obituary
Naciel Kendale Carpenter, affectionately known as Angel, passed away on January 9, 2026, in Memphis, Tennessee, at the age of 16. Born on June 17, 2009, in Memphis, Naciel brought light and love into the world from the very beginning. A junior at Shrine School, Naciel was a young man whose presence radiated joy and warmth.
His unique way of engaging with the world left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Whether it was his fascination with pressing buttons and turning things on and off, or his remarkable ability to balance while rocking objects in his hand—better than anyone else— Naciel’s spirit was both gentle and strong.
He lived by a simple yet telling philosophy: “Love me, feed me, and leave me alone,” unless he wanted your attention—then he made sure you knew. Once given only a 25% chance of survival by doctors, Naciel defied the odds through faith and love, blessing those around him with nearly seventeen years of treasured moments. His life stood as a testament to resilience and grace.
Naciel is deeply mourned by mother Nashara Crawford, and his siblings: Tatiuna Valeary, Bionica Barnes, Terica Morris, Ge'Tiya Carpenter, Gino Carpenter, and Nabriel Carpenter. He is lovingly remembered by his maternal grandparents LaPriddia T. Carter and Alvin Crawford; paternal grandparents Sarah Weddington and Gregory Carpenter Sr.; maternal aunts Lisa Jackson, Kimberly Crawford, Sherlonda Crawford, and Carlita Crawford; maternal uncle Denardo Crawford; paternal aunts Tori Dawnielle Tracey Carpenter, Christal Mobey, Lakisha McKinney, Monique Maclin, and Maquita Maclin; and paternal uncles Gregory Carpenter Jr.(2),
Corey Carpenter, and Melvin Maclin.
He now joins in eternal rest his father Gregory Carpenter Jr.(1); uncles Craig Carpenter and Maurice Crawford; brothers Lesean Carpenter, Nakeyvious Taylor, Elijah Taylor, and Emory Taylor; aunt Lisa Hill; as well as nephews and a cousin who preceded him in death.
Those who knew Naciel will remember his smile that could light up a room and the quiet strength he carried through every challenge. His life was a gift—a reminder of what it means to love without condition and to find joy in the simplest things.
In honor of Naciel’s beautiful spirit, we share these heartfelt words from a poem written for him by his mother:
“Forever Without You”, A Poem to My Baby
From the moment your little hand grabbed my finger. I knew our story would be different. The day you were born, I knew it would be a mighty fight. I knew our story would be one to remember. No one could have prepared me for how awesome you would make my life. No one told me how you would come into my world and give me superpowers. No one told me that you would be my sunshine on those dark nights. No one told me that you would be my soil and I would be your flower.
I thank God for allowing me to be the receiver of your precious love. Your love taught me how to see differently. It gave me patience and taught me strength. It taught me language isn’t love but emotions are. The way everyone loves you because of how you loved them was heaven sent. For 16 years, your love filled
my heart. So when God sent his angels down and called you home, I knew deep down your spirit was safe, at peace and surrounded by love. I know you’re watching from up above, just know momma will always have a hole in her heart.
To know you are so far away, tears me apart. But your smile, your humor, your strength will now be my forever.
Your memories will live on. Help momma with this next part. The part where I wake up, Forever Without You. My Baby, My Naciel, My Angel
A Memorial Service will be held on February 7, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Salvation Army Kroc Center, 800 E Parkway S. May Naciel’s memory continue to bring comfort to all who loved him. His legacy of love lives on in every heart he https://touched.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery, 5668 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38119 (901) 767-8930.
“Where Memphis comes to remember, since 1924.”
What’s your fondest memory of Naciel?
What’s a lesson you learned from Naciel?
Share a story where Naciel's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Naciel you’ll never forget.
How did Naciel make you smile?