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On Wednesday, September 3, 2025, William "Rodney" Pennington moved to his forever heavenly home. Born on August 3, 1950, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to Marshall Glenn and Melba Brackman Pennington, Rodney grew up in a home rooted in God's goodness and the truth of Jesus. His life motto, "Choose Joy," was more than a phrase, it was how he lived every single day.
Rodney graduated from Woodlawn High School and Northwestern State University with a degree in mathematics. He built a successful career with Texas Eastern and Tenneco before co-founding Pendulum Energy. While his work was meaningful, his true calling was ministry. For 28 years, he opened his home for Tuesday night Bible studies, welcomed students on Wednesday nights, and faithfully attended Saturday morning men's group, where he was known as the "glue" that kept the group together.
He was his wife Brenda's anchor, the steady, loyal voice of reason who kept her laughing for 28 years. He was his daughter Allison's first phone call every morning, her wisest counselor, and the funniest person she ever knew. He was the favorite conversation partner of his sister Claire, especially when it came to politics and football. To his friends, he was both competitor and encourager, always quick with wit and always ready to pull a prank.
Rodney believed in living with integrity and simplicity. He loved order but also had a streak of spontaneity when it came to life's simple joys: "Let's go out to eat," "Let's make a tee time," or his favorite, "Let's write a check to help someone out today." He delighted in helping children and those facing unexpected financial hardships, which inspired him to create a nonprofit, Unexpected Provision. Few things brought him more joy than blessing others in their time of need.
Even in the hospital, Rodney never stopped sharing his faith. Nurses and doctors nicknamed him "preacher man" as he made sure everyone he met knew about the hope he had in Jesus. His family takes comfort in knowing that when he drew his final breath, he entered the presence of the Savior he loved and served so faithfully.
Home was where he felt happiest. From his office window overlooking the golf course, he would hold up signs for golfers that said things like "Nice Putt," "Great Shot," and his favorite, "Try Tennis." He enjoyed playing spades with friends, keeping a 10-year score sheet (where he proudly held first place). He loyally cheered for the Dallas Cowboys, LSU Tigers, and Houston Astros. His humor, quick wit, and contagious positivity filled every room he entered.
Rodney is now reunited in heaven with his parents, Marshall Glenn and Melba Brackman Pennington, and many loved ones who went before him. He is deeply missed by his wife, Brenda Froehlich Pennington; his son, Shelby Glen Pennington; his daughter, Allison Frances Pennington; his precious sister, Claire Ruth Pennington; his loving sister, Glynn Ellen McCoy; and his faithful big brother, Marshall Gary Pennington, and Gary's wife, Jean. His legacy also lives on through his beloved grandchildren Wiley, Shaylee, Marlee, Max, and Rowan; his nieces, Tiffany and Taylor, who were more like daughters; his nephews, Austin, Travis, and Ben; and countless friends, whom he considered family.
A private interment will be held at Salem Lutheran Cemetery in Tomball, Texas. A memorial service celebrating Rodney's life will take place at Champion Forest Baptist Church, 15555 Stuebner-Airline Rd, Spring, Texas, on Friday, September 26, at 1:00 p.m.
In Rodney's honor, donations may be made to the nonprofit he founded, Unexpected Provision, a 501(c)(3), 19500 State Highway 249, Suite 100, Houston, Texas 77070 ( click here or scan the code). Just as Rodney was known for his spontaneous generosity, often saying, "Let's write a check to help someone out today," your gift continues this legacy of joyful kindness and support for those when they need it most.
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Champion Forest Baptist Church - Champions
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