Cumberland, VA - John Earl Carden, 68, went to be with the Lord on October 23, 2026.

John grew up in Mechanicsville, Virginia, where he enjoyed his childhood and working on local farms. He spent the last 50 years in Cumberland, Virginia, where he found great joy in tending to his own farm. John owned and operated Carden's Farm and Home Supply for 30 years, where he proudly served the community's farm, home, and lawn care needs alongside his eldest daughter, Sara. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard Otis Carden and Shirley Mae Porter Carden, and his eldest brother, Richard Otis Carden II. 

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of nearly 50 years, Jan Wright Carden; his daughters, Sara Carden Welton (Matt) and Megan Elizabeth Richardson (Billy); his brother, David Carden (Susan); his sister, Susan Lipscomb; his sister-in-law, Judy Clements (Bobby); his brother-in-law, Tommy Wright (Cindy); his beloved grandchildren, Hunter and Ava Welton; his nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog, Layne. 

John had an infectious personality, a love for the simple things in life, and a special way of bringing joy to those around him. He will be deeply loved, greatly missed, and forever remembered by his family and all who knew him. 

A memorial service will be held on Friday, November 6, 2026, at 4:00 PM at Bennett & Barden Funeral Home, 3215 Anderson Hwy., Powhatan, VA 23139. 

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Cumberland Volunteer Rescue Squad in Cumberland, Virginia