PENNEY, Eric Mansfield ‘‘Manse’’
July 18, 1940 March 23, 2024. It is with heavy hearts that we, the family, announce the passing of Eric Mansfield Penney, (Manse), aged 83, at Oram’s Birchview Manor, Glovertown. He passed peacefully with his beloved wife of 62 years, Louise, at his side. Manse was pre-deceased by his only son, Private Roger M. Penney; his parents, Robert and Bessie Penney; his parentsin-law, Samuel and Martha Woodland; his siblings, Issac, Millicent, Myrtle, Leslie, Margaret, Dorman, Charles, and Augustus, as well as in-laws Caroline, William, James, Cecil, Harry, and Winston. Left to cherish his memory and celebrate his life are his devoted wife, Louise (Woodland); daughters, Arlene (Gerald) Adams, and Tanya (Louis) Thomas; grandchildren, Eric Adams (Natasha Hunt), Penni (Shane) Smith, Jerri-lynn Adams (Adam White), Taylor, Jorja, Kingston, and Ginger Thomas; and greatgrandchildren, Ryker, Karsyn and Felix Adams, Luke and Mollie Smith. He is also survived by his sister-inlaw, Mary Penney, brotherin-law Llewelyn Woodland; and a large circle of extended family and friends. Manse took great pride in his distinguished career, first as a member of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, and later as a City of St. John’s Vehicle Patrol Officer. Born in Lethbridge, Bonavista Bay, Manse began his adult life working as a teacher in South Brook at the age of 18. It was upon his return home that he met the love of his life, Louise Woodland. In September 1961, they exchanged vows and established their home in St. John’s. As a young family, they welcomed boarders and Manse took on various painting jobs to make ends meet. Their summers were filled with camping trips, providing lasting memories for the family. In 1986, Manse and Louise purchased a house in Charleston, which he relocated to their family land in Lethbridge. Over the years, this little home became a cherished retreat for Manse and Louise. Despite his declining health in recent years, Manse’s warmth and infectious smile continued to light up any room he entered. He had a genuine interest in others and always sought to forge meaningful connections. In his final years, Manse and Louise relocated to Glovertown to be closer to their eldest daughter, Arlene. Despite his illness, Manse continued positivity and laughter, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him. Eric Mansfield Penney will be dearly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know and love him. Though he may have left this world, his light will continue to shine brightly in our hearts. ‘‘I saw the light, I saw the light. No more darkness, no more night. Now I’m so happy, no sorrow in sight. Praise the Lord, I saw the light.” - Hank Williams. Visitation at Barrett’s Funeral Home, 328 Hamilton Avenue, St. John’s on Monday, April 8th from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m., and Tuesday, April 9th from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Funeral service will take place at Wesley United Church, 101 Patrick Street on April 9th at 2 p.m. Donations may be made in Manse's memory to the Canadian Cancer Society.