ALICE M. PENNINGTON

1923-2021

Alice McIIvaine Pennington passed away on Saturday, March 13, 2021. Alice was born in Mansfield, Ohio on August 10, 1923 to Clarence and Grace McIIvaine. She is preceded in death by her husband of seventy three years Paul B. Pennington,

Jr., her parents, brother, Jim McIlvaine, sister, Peggy Buis, son-in –law Patrick O’Connor and great grandchild, Fisher Woodchick. She is survived by son John B. Pennington and wife Mary, daughter Peggy Pennington O’Connor, daughter Diana Pennington Fly and husband Bob. Her grandchildren include Kate Fly, Lindsey Thomas (Matt), Blake Pennington (Kristin), Molly Woodchick and Courtney Sleiman (Alecco). Her great grandchildren include Carter Thomas,Kylie Thomas and John Barrett Pennington. Special family members include Rosemary and Mel Gafner, Karen and Mark Mobley and Jacob Sleiman.

When Alice was seven, the family moved to the Panama Canal Zone. Her uncle was the Executive Secretary to the Governor of the Panama Canal. She graduated from Balboa High School in 1941. During the war, she worked as a secretary and volunteered at the USO. On a blind date, she met Paul who was stationed at France Field in Panama. After the war, they wed in Houston in 1946.

Alice was an active member of St. Philip Presbyterian Church where she served as deacon, usher and Sunday school teacher. Alice was also a Cub Scout and Camp Fire Girl leader. She was also a past member of the Houston Junior forum and The Garden Club.

She had a special way of making a house feel like a home. Alice was always a stylish dresser and a talented homemaker who loved entertaining, cooking and gardening. She derived great joy from having family gatherings and she had a gift for making every occasion and holiday memorable. In her leisure time, Alice loved to travel with her husband and family. Alice lived a young life that was different from most Americans. She loved living in the tropical paradise of Panama.

Alice leaves behind a long legacy of love, adventure and family. She was indeed a good wife, a devoted mother and sweet grandmother and great grandmother. The family wishes to express gratitude for the love and care provided by Daisy Llanera, Mirian Perlaza, Sharon Winstead, Irene Martinez and Houston Hospice.

In lieu of usual remembrances, memorial contributions may be directed to St. Philip Presbyterian Church, 4807 San Felipe, Houston, TX 77056.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.