Billy Milo Pennington

Born on January 11, 1946, in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, Billy was a proud native of Cherokee County and a graduate of Tahlequah High School. He went on to serve his country honorably as a Vietnam veteran, a role he carried with great pride throughout his life.

Billy worked for many years as a heavy equipment operator on the pipeline, a job that matched his strong work ethic and quiet determination. In his spare time, he enjoyed watching Westerns, especially classic cowboy films, and had a deep appreciation for television shows that focused on building cars and heavy equipment. He loved animals, collected firearms of all kinds, and rarely missed a rodeo—whether on TV or in person. His favorite music was the blues, especially the soulful sounds of Al Green and Marvin Gaye.

Billy was preceded in death by his wife, Helen Jean Pennington; his parents, William Henderson Pennington and Sammie LaRue (Adkisson) Smith; his son, Billy Milo Pennington Jr.; and his daughter, Tracy Lynn Moore.

He is survived by his daughter, Stephanie Dawn Pennington of Tahlequah, Oklahoma; his brother, Michael David Mayfield of Midland, Texas; and his sisters, Sue Truitt and husband Harvey of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, and Jan Dodd and husband Jimmy of Stilwell, Oklahoma; his grandchildren: Carissa McCoy and husband TC of Westville, Oklahoma; Trista Baker and husband Michael of Moody, Oklahoma; Kaia Tutwiler of Tahlequah, Oklahoma; and Robin Bradley of Tahlequah, Oklahoma. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Destiny Baker, Brody Wiley, Autumn Baker, Katie McCoy, and Reba McCoy. Billy is also survived by his ex-wife and special friend Sheila Burnam; Jason Moore, a close and devoted son-in-law; and Danny Truitt, whom he loved as a son.

Billy will be remembered for his independent spirit, his love of country and community, and his enduring respect for hard work and tradition.