Debra A Pennington

SOUTH PEKIN ~ Debra Ann Pennington, 52, of 313 Birkett Street, passed away at 12:17 p.m. Sunday, April 17, 2011 at her residence.

Born October 7, 1958 in Long Beach, CA to James F. and Agnes L. (Hagerty) Benson, she married the love of her life, John Pennington on Nov. 17, 1984 at Long Beach, CA.  He survives.

Also surviving are three sons, John “J.D.” Pennington, Joshua Pennington, both of South Pekin and Eric (Jenifer) Wisher of Pekin and one granddaughter, Taylor Wisher.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother and one sister.

Debra was raised in Southern California and loved surfing and being near the beach and ocean.  She also was fond of lighthouses and enjoyed watching movies and spending time with her family.  Her family meant the world to her.  Debra moved to Illinois in 1980 and was a longtime employee of Wal-Mart, where she loved to work.  She had attended barber college and nursing college.

Her visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, April 21, 2011 at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.  The family will receive friends following the visitation at the home of Donna Lovell, her sister-in-law, at 12447 State Route 29, Pekin for a celebration of life gathering.  Cremation will be accorded following the visitation.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com