Patricia Ann Penelton

Patricia Ann (Cornell) Penelton Obituary
July 24, 1950 - May 16, 2025
With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the remarkable life of Patricia Ann Penelton, a beacon of faith, service, and compassion. Born on July 24, 1950, in Kingsville, Texas, Patricia was the eldest child of Oscar Cornell and Mary Hunter. From an early age, she carried a deep sense of purpose and devotion, setting the foundation for a life dedicated to uplifting others.
After attending Fredrick Douglas School, Patricia graduated from King High School in 1968. It was during her time at Texas A&I University, where she earned her degree in English, that she met her lifelong partner, Harry Alexander Penelton III. They married on December 5, 1970, beginning a journey of love, faith, and service together.
Patricia's professional career was defined by excellence and dedication. She first served as an English teacher at East High School in the Kansas City, Missouri school district before transitioning to AT&T, where she excelled in operations and project management until her retirement in 2003 in St. Louis. But slowing down was never her style-she embarked on yet another career with Charter Communications in 2005, retiring in 2018.
Her faith remained the cornerstone of her life. Rooted in King Star Baptist Church as a child, Patricia made a lasting impact at Central Christian Church in Kansas City. Upon moving to St. Louis in 1986, she and Harry became devoted members of Centennial Christian Church, where she graciously served as church moderator, vice moderator, deacon, usher, Christian Education chair. Worship co-chair and choir member.
Patricia was a servant leader, always striving to make a difference with humility and grace. She was deeply involved with numerous boards and organizations, including Phyllis Wheatley YWCA, President Hylton Point Senior Living, and as the 2016 President of the National Convocation of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). She also led as President of the St. Louis chapter of The Alliance of AT&T Telecommunications Employees and was a charter member of the St. Louis Symphony InUnison Chorus.
In 2020, Patricia and Harry embarked on their most cherished mission: feeding souls and spreading faith. Through programs like God's Helping Hands, O'Taste and See, Lighthouse Lunches, God's Café, and Neighbors Keeper, she extended kindness and sustenance to her community. Her unwavering commitment was recognized by the St. Louis American Heart Association during their 100-year anniversary celebration, honoring her profound impact.
Patricia had a heart that welcomed everyone. She never met a stranger, offering warmth, generosity, and friendship to all. Her bright smile and selfless spirit created partnerships, empowered communities, and uplifted those in need.
She cherished her family and embraced life with joy and enthusiasm. Whether traveling to new places, engaging in spirited rounds of Bridge and Phase 10, or mastering line dances like Boots On the Ground, she found happiness in every moment and shared it generously with those around her.
On May 16, Patricia departed this world doing what she loved-serving others. While her physical presence will be deeply missed, her love and dedication remain an everlasting light in our hearts. Her legacy of leadership and service will forever inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her.
She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Waldell, Anthony, and Oscar Cornell Jr. Her influence and devotion live on through her devoted husband of 54 years, Harry, and her beloved children: Anthony Penelton (Jennifer) of Perryville, MO, Alexis Dennard (Timothy) of Cedar Hill, TX, Tamarah Clark (Stacy) of Florissant, MO, and Shelly Penelton (Shervelle) of St. Louis, MO. Patricia's legacy continues through her grandchildren, Mia Brown, Kamari Dennard, and Dante Penelton, and great-grandchildren, Camryn Brown and Thea Penelton.
She is also lovingly remembered by her brothers Ronald Cornell of Larned, KS, and Eddie Cornell of San Antonio, TX, and her sister Denise Thomas of Bishop, TX. Patricia's extended family includes her stepbrothers Richard Speed (Robyn) of Lexington, KY, Tyrone Skinner (Kim), and Robert Skinner of Corpus Christi, TX, and her stepsister June Speed of Houston, TX.
Patricia's life was one of service, love, and devotion. May we honor her memory by carrying forward the kindness she so freely gave.

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