James D. Pennington

He was born on October 23,1932 in Duffield, Virginia to Berta Pennington Young. Jim lived his childhood with his beloved grandparents Troy and Serena Pennington in the mountains of Virginia, where he learned a strong farm life work ethic which would carry him through life admirably.

As a teenager, he came to the Midwest with his uncle, Lonnie Pennington, where he attended high school in Anderson, Indiana. In April 1952, Jim enlisted in the United States Air Force and served four years as an Aircraft Jet Engineer Mechanic in the 308th Periodic Maintenance Squad (SAC). He was stationed at both Hunter Air Force Base in Savannah, Georgia and Lajes Field (Air Base No. 4) located on Terceira Island, Portugal.

Upon his honorable discharge in 1956, Jim returned to Indiana to work for Stewart-Warner Corporation as a Mechanical Engineer. It was during his first year back in Indiana that he met the love of his life, Nancy J. Jessup. They married on December 29, 1957, and settled in Indianapolis where they began their family.

Jim was a devoted family man and dedicated his life to providing for their every need. Work was not foreign to him; he especially enjoyed hands-on experiential work that provides a great sense of pride and accomplishment. It was no surprise that in his next career move, he turned down an offer from Indiana Bell for an engineering, behind-the-desk job, to work in the field as a successful and respected Repair and Installation Technician; from which he retired with praise.

Jim and Nancy were a formidable team in all aspects of their lives. From goals and aspirations in their careers, to raising their family and enjoying their favorite activities, always together. The sports world was a special connection for the entire family with kick ball games in the front yard to excursions to the race tracks, basketball courts, baseball diamonds, football fields and tennis courts. He ensured there was always time to enjoy a good competition together with his children and grandchildren. Jim was an avid and talented bowler, earning his perfect 300 score with high honors, awards and grand celebration!

Jim was preceded in death by his loving wife, Nancy Pennington.

He is survived by his adoring family who will miss him tremendously when that certain country song comes on the radio, the green flag starts a race or a ball is thrown, caught or swishes through the hoop at a game! 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, Emmie Pennington, Clara, Mary and Robert Weddle, Roland Fike and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Crown Hill Funeral Home, 700 W. 38th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46208, in the Chapel. Visitation 12:30 -1:30 pm, Service 1:30 – 2:30 pm with Military Honors and burial to follow.

Memorial gifts may be given to: First Friends Church of Indianapolis (indyfriends.org)