Mrs. Nancy J. Pennington

Born on Christmas Eve, December 24,1939, in Shirley, Indiana, she was the tenth and last surviving child of twelve, born to Addison Lowell and Catherine Compton Jessup.

Nancy graduated from Spiceland High School in 1957 then married James D. Pennington on December 29th, of the same year. They made their home in Indianapolis where they began their family. She began her professional career with Indiana Bell at the age of 23, working her way through the ranks from special clerical assistant to the first woman engineer, a trailblazer at the company.

Nancy was active in her community being a proud member of the Daughter’s of the American Revolution, the Telephone Pioneers of America and First Friends Church. She loved to participate and make a difference at the church by taking leadership roles on numerous committees. She was admired for her exceptional organizational skills and joyful spirit. Her favorite activity was singing in the church choir for over 40 years. Nancy was an avid sports enthusiast whose passion for competition brought her endless joy. Whether cheering from the stands or following from home she loved auto racing, Indiana basketball, football and her children’s and grandchildren’s competitions. She was a competitive bowler and softball player for many years. Sporting events were more than entertainment to her – they were a way to connect with family and friends, share the excitement and create lasting memories.

Nancy is survived by her husband of 68 years, James D. Pennington, children: Beth Falkenbach (Gary), Carol Leneschmidt (John), Mark Pennington (Susan), grandchildren: Anne Weddle (Luke), John Pennington (Kaitlin), Grace List (Jen), Drew Leneschmidt (Ashley), Emma Fike (Brady), Holly Pennington, Cole Leneschmidt (Julia), great grandchildren: Brantley and Parker Leneschmidt, Palmer Leneschmidt, William, Charlotte, and Emmy Pennington, Clara, Mary and Robert Weddle, Roland Fike and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at First Friends Church, 3030 E. Kessler Boulevard, Indianapolis, Indiana. We will welcome guests beginning at 2:30 pm for Calling prior to the 3:00 pm service. There will be a Celebration of Life following the service at an alternate location.

Memorial gifts may be given to: First Friends Church of Indianapolis (indyfriends.org) or Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org)

Flowers can be delivered to First Friends Church, 3030 E. Kessler Boulevard, Indianapolis, IN 46260, Saturday, January 31st 9:00 am – 12:00 noon and Sunday, February 1st, 9:00 am – 2:00 pm.