Easley, South Carolina, September 24, 2025

News Summary

Jean Cordell Pennington, aged 83, peacefully passed away, leaving a legacy of faith, kindness, and community service in Easley, South Carolina. Known affectionately as ‘everybody’s mom,’ Jean devoted herself to her family and church, inspiring many through her acts of compassion. A memorial service is scheduled at Berea First Baptist Church, celebrating her life and dedication to serving others.

Easley, South Carolina

Jean Cordell Pennington, 83, peacefully passed away from cancer on Wednesday, September 17, 2025. Known for her unwavering faith and inspiring courage, Jean lived in Easley, South Carolina, with her husband, Ken Pennington, and their dog, Saige.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Berea First Baptist Church, located at 529 Farrs Bridge Rd, Greenville, SC 29611.

Life and Legacy

Jean was born as Shelby Jean Simmons on December 9, 1941, in Liberty, South Carolina. She was the oldest of four children of Lloyd and Ruby Simmons, with her siblings: Jack Simmons, Johnny Simmons, and Janet Osborne, residing in the Greenville area. Jean was a loving mother to two sons, Todd Cordell and Greg Cordell, who characterized her as fiercely devoted, loving, and generous.

Her passion for family and friends was evident throughout her life, and she was often referred to as “everybody’s mom.” Jean’s kindness extended beyond her family, as she shared her culinary talents with her famous banana pudding and was known for sending out multiple cards each week to those she cared about.

Community Involvement

Jean was a deeply compassionate individual whose acts of kindness were inspired by her profound love for her Savior, Jesus Christ. As a devoted member of Berea First Baptist Church, she met her husband, Ken. Jean participated actively in church life through various roles, including nursery work, serving as the Women’s Missionary Union secretary, and singing in the church choir.

A strong advocate for missions, she traveled to Uganda, Nicaragua, and Grenada to serve those in need. Additionally, she provided meals for house-bound members of her community, reflecting her commitment to service.

Jean and Ken were together for almost 10 years and were planning to celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary in April 2025. Their relationship was marked by a deep love for one another and for God.

Professional Life

On the professional front, Jean worked as a dental assistant and manager, later transitioning to a role as a telecommunications manager for Sprint in Jacksonville, Florida.

Survivors and Family

Jean is survived by her husband Ken Pennington, son Todd Cordell and daughter-in-law Kathy, along with their children Kasey and Blake; son Greg Cordell and daughter-in-law Courtney, with their children Kylie and Griffin. She is also survived by stepson Kenny Pennington, daughter-in-law Donna, and their son Zach, in addition to six great-grandchildren.

Jean’s siblings, Janet Osborne and her children Jessica, Michelle, and Austin; Jack Simmons and his wife Ginger and their children Krista and Doug; and Johnny Simmons and his wife Carol and their children April and Angela, also survive her. Jean was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Ruby Simmons.

A Lasting Impact

Jean Cordell Pennington’s life stood as a testimony of love, faith, and selflessness. Her legacy of compassion and service will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to support Missions at Berea First Baptist Church or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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Additional Resources

• Dignity Memorial: Jean Cordell Pennington
• Wikipedia: Obituary
• El Dorado News: Obituaries
• Dignity Memorial: Robbie Williams
• Google Search: Jean Cordell Pennington obituary

Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE

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