Ann Marie Pennington (79) of Toledo

Ann Marie Pennington, 79, of Toledo, IL, passed away at 6:32am on Tuesday, January 3, 2023 surrounded by her family at HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital in Effingham, IL.

Ann was born on March 18, 1943, in Lincoln, IL, the daughter of Mac and Olive (Wisner) Waldrip. She attended elementary, junior high, and 3 years of high school in New Holland, IL and completed her senior year at Mattoon High School where she graduated salutatorian in 1961. She then graduated from Eastern Illinois University in 1965 with a Bachelor of Science in Education.

She married Charles Lee Pennington on December 20, 1969. They have three children, Beth (Keith) Hesterberg of Fresno, CA, Tracey (Matt) Weber of Glen Carbon, IL, and Kyle (Rachael) Pennington of Effingham, IL and six grandchildren who brought her so much joy: Cole and Abby Hesterberg, Sydney and Carson Weber, Coen and Kade Pennington. She is also survived by her beloved sister, Susan (Kenny) Evans of Mattoon, IL.

She was preceded in death by her parents. Ann taught first grade at Neoga for 7 years prior to becoming a full-time partner on the farm – and a Mom. Even though very busy with the family farm, she was a dedicated mother – never missing a school-room party, awards ceremony, or sporting event that her kids were a part of. Once her kids were all attending school, she began substitute teaching at Cumberland Elementary School and later became a school librarian which spanned more than 20 years. Ann’s life passion was her family; she also made time to enjoy her love of bowling and was an avid reader – seldom seen without a book. For the last 21 years, Ann enjoyed every detail of her grandkids’ lives – from births to graduations including every milestone and activity along the way.

Private services will be held per Ann’s wishes. The Barkley Funeral Chapel in Toledo, IL is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, friends wishing to honor Ann and share her love of reading can send memorials in her name to the Cumberland Elementary School Library, Attn: District Librarian Megan Walk, 1496 IL RT121, Toledo, IL 62468. Online condolences can be expressed by clicking here.