Penny Suzzette Smith

Born to Marvin and Bobbie Whitaker on 03/06/1952 in Greggton, Texas, she enjoyed basketball and getting into scuffles in school. After graduating 1970 from Gilmer High School, Penny learned photography, had a child, raised a pampered herd of cattle, and became a welder for over 30 years. She had unyielding love and care for her family, and was unafraid of hard work and toil. She was strong, brave, honest, giving, and loyal.

Penny was often found, fishing pole in hand, finding the best places to cast her line. She also loved to travel. Cross-country road trips, a jaunt to a nearby snowcone stand, or dinner with loved ones. She could barely sit still for a day, and had a contagious energy that usually had others wanting to come along for the ride.

She follows her mother, Bobbie M. Whitaker, her father, Marvin E. Whitaker, and her sister, Pamela Hoadley into the next life.

She will be deeply missed by daughter Bobbie Jean (B.J.) Cabello, grandchild Brittani M. Snyder, great grandchild Alouette R. Dunsmore, and brother Michael R. Whitaker, as well as friends: Debbie Wilburn, Mr.Skinner, Gordon Gunn, and Harold Wells.

A special thanks to Debbie Wilburn, Penny's devoted best friend and a member of the family by affection. She has enriched their lives and Penny's, and the help and care she gave Penny in her last weeks was unmatched.

Viewing is set for 11:00 am on 04/18/2022 at Lakeview Funeral Home: 5000 W Harrison Rd, Longview, TX, 75604. Funeral service will be at 1:00 pm, burial to follow. Reception will be held at the home of Penny's granddaughter: 6694 US HWY 259 S, Longview, TX, 75605.

Pallbearers will be James Whitaker, Stephen Whitaker, Jerry Snyder, Melvin Wilburn, Jerry Wilburn, Derek Knutsen-Frey, and Tanner Wilburn.

Donations can be made to the GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer on Penny's behalf.