Frank Carpenter Jr, 94, resident of Augusta, GA, departed this life Sunday, December 26, 2021. A rare vintage, born in Waynesboro, GA was laid to rest in a private service at Bellevue Memorial Gardens, Grovetown, Ga.
Frank enjoyed an illustrious forty-seven-year career at the Augusta National Golf Club as the renowned Sommelier and “Keeper of the Keys.” His exquisite palate and excellent taste memory made him a Subject Matter Expert of Bordeaux and Burgundy wines. In 2000, he was commissioned by Weldon Wyatt to curate the Sage Valley Golf Club wine cellar. As an homage to Frank’s extraordinary legacy, the Sage Valley Golf Club Carpenter’s Reserve is a Meritage of wines by Napa Valley’s Cosentino Winery and friend Mitch Cosentino, named in his honor.
Featured in numerous publications, including Golf Digest, Sports Illustrated, “Uneven Lines” by Pete McDaniel, “Making of the Masters” by David Owen, Augusta Magazine and countless others, he was always inspiring and a mentor to many. Frank was a faithful member of Thankful Baptist Church, avid Sunday School attendee, World War II Veteran, former President of the Sommelier Society, jazz aficionado and supporter of several organizations.
He is survived by his devoted wife of forty years: Madie Carpenter; sons: George Williams (Shauntel), Jonathan Carpenter (Francine) and Gregory Carpenter (Aishah); sister: Susanne Allen; niece: Nita Y. Barnes; and a host of in-laws, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
He was preceded in death by former wife Alice Grace Carpenter and a sister Harriett Leverett.
The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the Doctors, healthcare providers and caregivers during his illness.