Jean Penn

Jean Penn, a beloved educator, devoted wife, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2025, in her home surrounded by love. Born on March 1, 1945, in Pekin, Illinois, Jean graced this world for nearly eight decades. Her vibrant spirit and nurturing heart touched everyone who crossed her path.

Jean dedicated over 25 years as a teacher, imparting knowledge and wisdom to her 5th graders at Victory Baptist and serving as a media specialist at Pinewood Elementary School in Jacksonville. Her love for teaching extended far beyond the classroom, as she also taught Sunday School for a quarter of a century at Faith Baptist Church, where she was known as a caring church clerk. Jean’s strong will and compassion were reflected in every facet of her life; she was a pillar of strength for her students and her church community.

Jean’s memories are woven with laughter, love, and adventure. In her younger years, she and her husband, Edward, fondly reminisced about their time spent enjoying slot cars. Edward, who she first met on a blind date at the Hardy theater, became her best friend and steadfast partner through more than 60 years of marriage—a testament to their true love story. Jean cherished the moments spent watching Edward play church softball and found joy in their travels together, exploring the East Coast in their camper and enjoying family trips to Branson and annual visits to St. Louis to watch the Cardinals play. Though her health eventually kept her from these outings, the memories they created during their travels will forever linger in the hearts of those who loved her.

As an avid reader, Jean immersed herself in her favorite books and shared her love of literature with her family. She had a special fondness for the color blue and enjoyed her time exploring flea markets, always eager to discover unique treasures. Annual family reunions at Heber Springs and celebrating Christmas with her family brought her immense joy, serving as a reminder of the love that surrounded her. Jean treasured her time with her grand dog, Allye, who brought her a smile whenever she was near.

Jean is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Edward Penn; her daughter, Kim Newsom (Robert); her grandson, Ryan Newsom (Keeley); her great-grandsons, Wyatt and Hudson Newsom; and her great-granddaughter, Emmaline Newsom. She is also survived by her sister, Sharon Westhoff (Mark). Preceding her in death were her devoted parents, Jerry and Dorothy Beal. Jean took great pride in her family and her relationship with the Lord, instilling love and kindness in all those she encountered.

A visitation to honor Jean will be held at Faith Baptist Church in North Little Rock, Arkansas on January 23, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM. Jean will be laid to rest at Rest Hills Cemetery at 12:30 PM, where her spirit will remain intertwined with the love she cultivated throughout her remarkable life.

Jean Penn leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering commitment to her family and friends. Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will forever shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her. She truly never met a stranger and spent her days spreading joy, making each person feel special and loved.