Penny Holman McPherson, a beacon of unconditional love and kindness, passed away surrounded by family on September 22, 2025. Born on August 21, 1941, Penny was known for the undeniably loving spirit she brought into the world.
A memorial service for Penny will be held on Monday, October 6, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Chalice Christian Church 300 N 5th St in Temple, Texas, with Pastor Mark Irons officiating.
The eldest of four siblings, Penny was, by nature, the nurturer. To those blessed to know her, she was calm in the chaos, a shelter in the storm, and her hugs carried a special healing power.
Penny was born and raised in Houston, Texas. However, a blind date arranged by her sister and her future mother-in-law with fellow Houstonian Keith McPherson in 1966 changed the course of her life. What began as a reluctant meeting blossomed into a 42-year marriage, until Keith’s passing in 2009.
Together, Penny and Keith raised their two children, Drew and Amanda McPherson. Keith’s career in the oil industry led the family on adventures to California, Colorado, and, eventually, Tripoli, Libya, in 1979. After two and a half years abroad, they returned to the U.S. and settled first in Salado, TX, and later in Temple, TX.
Though she worked in roles ranging from childcare services to administrative positions at Scott & White Hospital, Penny would say her greatest accomplishments were her relationships. She was a devoted mother, wife, sister, aunt, friend, co-worker, and neighbor. No matter the setting, Penny brought patience, grace, humor, and an incomparable ability to make people feel truly seen and heard.
She is survived by her son, Drew McPherson; her daughter, Amanda McPherson; her son-in-law, Jeremy Blumes; her sister, Holly Pizzitola; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who adored her. Penny was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Keith McPherson, and her brothers Gary Holman and Andy Holman.
Penny’s legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched with her love and compassion. The family invites you to honor her by extending kindness to others. Memorial gifts can be directed to the McPherson Forgivable Loan Program at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. Contributions may be made online at https://advance.umhb.edu/g/giving
