Penny A. Meyer

Penny was a Jerseyville native and the daughter of Helen and Henry Heitzig. She was blessed with one sister, Linda, but had the experience of growing up in a large extended family that enjoyed gathering at her paternal grandparents' farm frequently. Penny attended St. Francis and Holy Ghost elementary schools and graduated from Jersey Community High School in 1963. Learning there were scholarships available for graduates who wanted to become educators, she seized the opportunity to go to Western Illinois University where she completed her bachelor's in 1967.

Penny taught Business Education and served as department chairperson for 34 years at Springfield Southeast High School. She made many lifelong friends there and upon retirement the school yearbook was dedicated to her. Penny met and married TJ early in her career and the pair enjoyed an adventurous life together for 46 years. They were blessed with two children, Michael and Kelly, who made their way back to Springfield where they currently reside. Having her two children move back home was a joy for Penny as her happiest times were spent with her children.

Penny was grateful for her family, faith, and friends who added much to her life's journey. She was fortunate to have a forever-buddy in her sister, Linda. Her mother managed to get Linda started in first grade when Penny started and that move resulted in a life-long, best-sister relationship. Their bond was like no other.

Penny's favorite word was “joy” which was fitting, because she inspired joy in so many others. Just like her dad, Penny never met a stranger. She was interested in everyone, and as a result people felt seen and important when they were around her. “The Penny Effect” was such that if you met her, you're likely never to forget her because she had a way of making everyone feel special. In this way she will be missed by so many.

Penny was preceded in death by her husband, TJ on January 10, 2016. She is survived by her son, Michael Meyer (fiancé, Laura Carnes), daughter, Kelly Meyer (family friend, Arlie Oliver), and her sister, Linda Distlehorst.

Visitation and Funeral Mass: Family will receive friends from 9:00 until 10:45 a.m. on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at Christ the King Church, 1930 Barberry Dr., Springfield, IL. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Very Rev. Christopher A. House, celebrant and and Rev. Fredrick Chima Mbiere, concelebrant.

Inurnment will follow at Calvary Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Christ the King Church.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL.