Shirley Pennington

1932-2022

Posted

Shirley L. Pennington, 89, Belle, passed away Monday, Feb. 28, 2022, at her residence.

She was born July 18, 1932, a daughter to the late Louis Amos and Adeline (Goers) Francis in Belle.

She was a 1950 graduate of Belle High School and aside from some time living in St. Louis, a lifelong area resident.

Shirley was united in marriage to Jackie Pennington, Jan. 6, 1951. He preceded her in death on Nov. 3, 2004.

Although she worked for a short time at two factories in Belle, Shirley was a homemaker. It was a job she loved, as she liked to be active, and it kept her busy. She sat on the Francis Cemetery board for many years.

Shirley was a member of the College Hill Baptist Church and her hobbies included gardening, cooking and watching cooking shows, and watching westerns. Shirley was a worker and liked to help others, always putting their needs above her own. She loved running around and spending time with her best friend, Evelyn Ridenhour, but her greatest joy came from time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Shirley will be missed greatly by her family and friends.

She was preceded in death by parents Louis and Adeline; husband Jackie; infant son Scott; and siblings Gladys Cedarquist, Eugene Francis, Earl Francis, Jimmy Francis and Carl Francis.

She is survived by children Craig Pennington and wife Georgia of Jefferson City, Kirk Pennington and wife Ann of St. Peters, Kevin Pennington and wife Misty of Winfield, and Christy Gehlert and husband Butch of Belle; nine grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; brother Russell Francis of St. Peters; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

Funeral services for Shirley were Friday, March 4, at Sassmann’s Chapel, Belle. Interment was at the College Hill Cemetery.

Memorials suggested to the Francis Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to Sassmann’s Chapel, Belle.