Penny Handlin Shye

Penny Handlin Shye, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2024, at her daughter’s home in Cocoa, Florida, surrounded by her loving family. Her life was a beautiful reflection of faith, love, and devotion to her family and community.

Born in Huntington, West Virginia, Penny was the cherished daughter of Ellen and Charles Handlin, Jr. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Andre Jack Shye; her parents, Ellen and Charles Handlin, Jr; and her brother, Louis Handlin.

She is survived by her brother, Charles Handlin III(Janie) of Tennessee; her sister, Anne Minshull (Paul) of Texas; her sister-in-law, Jill Ditges; her children, Jason Shye (Merrell) and Andrea Beyel (Joseph); her grandchildren: Jonathan Miller (Olivia), Samantha Stowers (Jonathan), Matthew Beyel (Tori), Alexis Miller (David), Megan Beyel (Jordan), Kaylee Williams (Eric), Brittany Rodriguez (Michael), Austin Vanderpool (Ashley), Logan Shye, Shelby Greene (Tyler), Monet Lightner, and Mark Lightner (Karina); and her great-grandchildren: Morgan, Kendall, Josslyn, Brycen, Addyson, Corban, Harper, Avery, Landon, Jet, Callie, Hank, Ella, Slade, Penelope, and Alina.

She is also lovingly remembered by her nieces and nephews: Jerod Morris (Wendy), Adam Minshull, Ethan Minshull (Andrea), Kasey Handlin, and Haylee Brigman (Robby); as well as her great-nieces and nephews: Madison, Ella, Audrey, Lorelei, and Sutton, and her great-nephews Ethan and Noah.

Penny’s life was marked by her faith and service. A devout Catholic, she was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, where she served as a Eucharistic Minister. Her commitment to her community extended to her roles as a member of Beta Sigma Phi, the Red Hat Society, the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Aladdin Society “Cocoa Village Playhouse”, and the Brevard Symphony Orchestra (BSO).

She opened her home and heart to many, hosting foreign exchange students and mentoring youth as a minister. Her love for family and her generous spirit brought joy and inspiration to everyone who knew her.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, December 13, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. After the Mass, a procession will lead to the gravesite at Florida Memorial Gardens for interment. All are welcome to join. A repast to honor Penny and share memories will be held at the home of her daughter and is open to friends and family.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Brevard Symphony Orchestra, Cocoa Village Playhouse, or a charity of your choice.

Rest in peace, Penny. Your love, kindness, and faith will forever live in the hearts of all who knew you.