Bobby Joe Pennington, Sr.
April 22, 1936 - February 20, 2026
Bobby Joe Pennington, Sr., age 89, of Bear, DE, passed away peacefully at his residence on Friday, February 20, 2026.
Born in Grayson, North Carolina on April 22, 1936, he was a son of the late Elijah C. and Lillie (Jones) Pennington. Bobby proudly served his country in the United States Army, where he was stationed in Germany. Following his honorable discharge, he dedicated 30 years of hard work as an autoworker with Chrysler. For more than 50 years, Bobby was known for his skill and passion as a mechanic, always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need of repair or advice.
He was a proud life member of the Masons and remained active with the Shriners. His community involvement also included memberships with the Elkton Moose Lodge and the VFW. Bobby was an avid fan of NASCAR and rarely missed a race. Above all, he cherished time spent with his grandchildren, always supporting their activities and accomplishments.
In addition to his parents, Bobby was preceded in death by his wife, Bernice (Baker) Penington; eight siblings; and daughter-in-law, Rebecca Pennington. He is survived by his sons, Bobby (Margaret Avena); Philip (Marlene), and Mathew (Ola); lifetime partner, Mary Ann McGlade; grandchildren, Mathew, Trent, Alexis, Cody, Bobby Joe, and Samantha; and great granddaughter, Elizabeth Joe.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10 am until 12 noon on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 1000 North DuPont Parkway, New Castle, DE, where a funeral service will begin at 12 noon. Interment will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Bobby’s memory may be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children, Attn: Shriners Children’s, P.O. Box 947765, Atlanta, GA 30394 or online by clicking here.
Pat and Lester Roark
Always enjoyed time spent with uncle Bob may he rest in peace. He will be missed. Prayers for the family.
Barbara Baldwin
We will miss all the great cookouts and time spent with Uncle Bob. All the brothers and sisters are together again.
Kathy Pennington Page
A Handsome Sweet Man that I was proud to call Uncle Bob. I remember as a little girl listening to how proud Grandmaw Lille was of her baby boy and the cuckoo clocks that came from Germany and I remember him visiting us in Milford, Delaware, the visits to Pennsylvania and his beautiful home in Bear when he married and had a family; he was my dads (Blaine Pennington) little brother.
He will be deeply missed. Love you Uncle Bob. Hug my dad for me, kiss Grandmaw and the rest of your siblings and Grandpaw too. Rest in Peace . Until we see each other again.🙏🙏🙏🙏 sending prayer for your family and may they find comfort in knowing you are in Gods care now.
Debra (Pennington) Bosco
It was always a joy to get reconnected with Uncle Bob at family reunions. I feel blessed to be a part of the Pennington family, and although it isn’t enough, I cherish every moment together along with fond memories. Uncle Bob will be missed.
I pray that you are comforted by the peace from our Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ.
Garry Whidbee
RIP My Brother Mason Bobby Joe Pennington Our Condolences to the family 🙏 from Garry n Jean Whidbee
Cindy Albright
My sincere condolences for your loss May you rest in peace