Hairston Funeral Home | Martinsville, VA

Obituary For William Myrl Penn

On Sunday, July 14, 2024, William (Billy) Myrl Penn, 82, of John Baker Rd., Fieldale, VA transitioned from this earthly life to eternal life at his residence. He was born August 18, 1941, in Henry County, VA to the late Douglas Penn and Martha Parker Penn.

In addition to his parents, Billky was preceded in death by his wife Audrey Shelton Penn; one daughter, Kerri L. Penn; five brothers, Daniel (Sunny) Penn, Frederick (Fred) Penn, James (Mike) Penn, Alvin B. Penn and Thomas P. Penn; and four sisters, Addie Thorpe, Hilda France, Marion (Princess Ann) Smith and Janis Gravely.

Billy was a member of New Bethel Christian Church (DOC) where he was a member of the Christian Men's Fellowship and a member of the Trustee Board. He was a member of the Kuwat Temple #126 where he held the position as Worshipable Master 32nd degree Mason. Billy was a graduate of George Washington Carver High School class of 1959 where he met and married the love of his life and played on the football team.

Billy started working at Tultex when it was Sale Knitting sweeping floors. He worked hard and moved up to be a very well-respected supervisor and colleague in the dye department until they closed. Billly was a business minded man who owned three different barber shops whom he worked side by side with his dear and best friend Melvin Prunty. He also owned Penn's Plumbing where he kept water and electricity running throughout the community and surrounding communities always treating his customers fair.

Billy loved his family first and foremost. He enjoyed watching sports, working in the yard, spending time with family and friends and even though cutting hair, doing plumbing and electrical work was his business they were somewhat of a hobby because he really enjoyed doing it

Those left to cherish his memory include: one daughter, Catrina M. Penn of Fieldale, VA; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

A visitation service will be held on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at 12:30 p.m. with the funeral service at 1 p.m. at New Bethel Christian Church (DOC), 9 Brandermill Dr., Fieldale, VA with Elder Bobby Agnew, Presiding & Eulogist. Interment will follow at Carver Memorial Gardens, 869 Parkway Dr., Martinsville, VA.

A public viewing will be held on Monday, July 22, 2024, at Hairston Funeral Home, 301 Fayette St., Martinsville, VA between the hours of 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. Other times, the family will be receiving friends at the residence, 486 John Baker Rd., Fieldale, VA between the hours of 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. daily. Live streaming available at Hairston Funeral Home Live via Facebook.

Courteous, efficient and dependable services provided by Hairston Funeral Home.

Guest Book

Our condolences to Catrina, family, friends and community on Billy's transition. Billy was kind and giving. He will be missed. But the memories will remind us of his treasure and contributions. Claudia and Kermit Payne; and Keelia and Kent Taylor.

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Condolences and prayers to the Penn family, Billy was a pillar of the Rock Run community, he was always willing to come when called to help solve maintenance and plumbing problems, he was a good friend, R.I.P Billy. Rogers and Peggy Wade

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Prayers and condolences to the Penn family and friends.

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To our family with deepest sympathy at this time of sorrow. Wishing you peace and comfort during this difficult time. Linda and LouisJr.Thorpe

- LINDA THORPE

Condolences and prayers for the family of my classmate and friend Billy. We always enjoyed talking to Billy and his wife Audrey they will be missed.George & LaDell Gilbert

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G. W. Carver High School, class of '63

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A great man indeed and one I will always remember. Brother Penn was always there for me when I needed assistance with my plumbing issues. The community has lost a great neighbor! One thing for sure is we will forever enjoy the stories and memories of our dear friend BilIy. We will always remember his firm unbreakable personality. Rest in peace my friend. Condolences from the McRae family

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I am forever blessed to have been able to serve Billy and Catrina. You will always have a place in my heart.

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Here's an edited version of your text: --- I was so sorry to hear about the passing of your dad. He was a wonderful man and a true friend. He possessed many talents and was always ready to help anyone in need. He certainly helped me with numerous plumbing issues when I couldn't be in Martinsville. I will always be thankful for his kindness, talents, and efficiency in solving many household problems. I am proud to have known him. May you be comforted by your memories. --- Linda Dupee-Clark

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Hairston Funeral Home | Martinsville, VA