Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
About
RICHARD PENNA Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for RICHARD PENNA
Angela Brooks
October 15, 2024
I still think of him and remember his smile. I am so glad he was a part of my life.
Angela Brooks
December 24, 2023
I am so truly heartbroken to hear of Pastor Penna's passing.
Our family loved his inspirational and uplifting services at Genesis...and his magnificant humor. I have never heard any minister who's voice in singing the hymns...was like that of Elvis and Mario Lanza.
He always took my breath away just listening to him sing and speak. So much so, I asked that he Baptiste my daughter and I...as I wanted him to be a part of our lives.
Every Sunday...his services were packed..and sometimes it was standing room only.
What is more...many people
Who came to hear him were not only Methodists....but other religions as well.
He welcomed everyone, no matter what faith.
His big warm hugs and hand shakes at the end of the service, stayed with you all week.
He helped so many people to see the good things in life...
That it brought peace within you when you left.
Pastor Penna was truly special...a gift from God.
I feel honored and blessed to have known him and will remember him always.
My deepest condolences to the family...and to all who loved him.
June 8, 2010
Carolyn - we just read of Richard's passing and wish to convey our prayers and sympathy to you and Richard's family. We feel honored to have had the opportunity to know Richard and you. Blessings, June & Lou Spellman
Virginia & Vernon Wattinger
November 2, 2009
Carolyn and Famiily The world has lost a wonderful man od God and he will sorely be missed, I am so glad we got to know both of you and will always cherise the conversations and friendship with you. May God watch over you and give you the strenght you need at this time. I will look at my little bird picture and think of you.Vernon ans Virginia Wattinger Austin,Texas
Mary Brown
November 2, 2009
Dor and I are very sad to hear of Richard's death. He was a remarkable man who made an impression on all who met him.
Stan and Nancy Mitchell
October 26, 2009
Carolyn, our thoughts, hearts, and prayers are with you and your family. We are so sorry for your loss.
Debbie Shaw
October 24, 2009
My thoughts and prayers for the family.
October 24, 2009
My thoughts and prayers for the family. Debbie Shaw OKC
Crockett Family
October 23, 2009
Dear Carrie, Andrea, and Lindsay,
We were very sad to hear of your father's passing. He was truly an amazing man and I feel honored to have had him as my pastor growing up at Genesis UMC. He married my husband and I and I will cherish that special time he shared with us forever. I will always remember your father's special hands and his ability to stop a baby from crying immediately just by holding them in his hands. Your family has always been special to me. I know your father is proudly looking down from heaven at all three of you and smiling. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Pamela, Christopher, Joshua, and Amanda Crockett
Billy Catchings
October 23, 2009
During our college years, I worked at Main Street United Methodist Church in Cleburne. Richard was a youth director at the Joshua Methodist church. I had a car and Joshua was on the way between Fort Worth and Cleburne. So, I dropped Richard off and picked him up on Sundays. I am saddened to hear of his death. I have such fond memories of those conversations during our drives to our respective jobs as youth ministers. He was and remains, for me, the smiling boy from Brooklyn who brought a wonderful yankee charm to a little college in Texas.
October 22, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Clive, Cheryl, Annaleise and Ella Parsons
Dixie and Steve Houston
October 22, 2009
Carolyn - We were so sorry to hear of Richard's death. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Devon Garrison
October 22, 2009
Dear Carolyn and Family. I am deeply saddend by Richards passing. He touched my life in such away that I will never forget. Wes, Morgan, Sascha, Elyse and I have wonderful memories of Him. We will miss Him.
Stan and Pam Cook
October 22, 2009
Rev Penna married us in March of 1981 at WC Martin UMC in Bedford, TX. We are so sorry for your loss.
Mike Voigts
October 21, 2009
Sheryl and I were saddened to hear the news of Richard's passing. I was Richard's associate pastor for a year while he was in Waco. I still remember words of counsel he offered me, and sometimes share them with seminary students that I teach. I remember one time Richard said, "Jesus is the Great Shepherd. I'm just his sheep dog." Like so many others, I miss his jovial laugh that would easily make you forget all your cares. We are praying for Carolyn and the entire family.
Jeanne Northcutt Korndoerfer
October 21, 2009
It is with great joy that I read all these guest book entries about the lives that Richard touched and changed. I was just a child when I first met him when he was a student at Texas Wesleyan College and Youth Director at then Matthews Memorial UMC in Ft. Worth. I was too young to be in his youth group, but he was a special friend of our family. I later called upon him when I needed him to perform our marriage ceremony, and so much of his counseling is still with me today. I was able to talk with him at great length 3 years ago when he so generously offerred to come to Ft. Worth to officiate at my sister Betty's funeral. He has been such an inspiration and bright spot throughout my entire life.
Though I have never met you Carolyn, and have not seen Carrie, Andrea or Lindsay since you were kids, please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you in these difficult days.
Dale Mixon
October 21, 2009
Dear Carolyn,
I was so sorry to hear from Lisa Hardcastle that Richard had died! What a terrible shock and loss to you and your family and to many who loved and appreciated Richard. I am so grateful for the opportunity he gave me to work at NWHUMC. It was a wonderful time for me and he did so much to make that a reality. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Dale Mixon
Rogers, AR
Jan Haile
October 21, 2009
Our family shares the deep sorrow of Richard’s sudden passing and the many endearing memories of his impact on our lives. As charter members of Genesis, we had a wonderful journey under Richard’s loving, joyful guidance. His sermons always inspired and encouraged, and his humor and joy were contagious. He laughed out loud when our small sons repeatedly dunked him in the church festival’s dunking booth one year, and he loved it when Ryan at age 5 said he didn’t need to eat Sunday breakfast because he would have the Lord’s Supper with Richard. Richard loved everyone, but oh how he loved the kids, who truly adored him too. At my insistence, he once sang the Lord's Prayer solo, and it moved all who heard it. Richard was the most inspiring, understanding minister of my life, and he saw our family through many of life’s best and worst moments. He was a man of God, not a saint among sinners, and he was one of a kind and beloved by so many. We give thanks that we were privileged to have been touched by his bear hugs and his joyful spirit.
To Carolyn, Carrie, Andrea, Lindsey, and family, the Genesis service was a moving and beautiful tribute to our beloved pastor Richard. Thank you for bringing him home to Genesis and allowing us to say goodbye.
God bless you all.
Jan Chapman Haile and family
Lisa Hardcastle
October 21, 2009
Dear Carolyn and family,
I cannot express to you the loss that I feel and cannot even imagine what you are going through. Richard was one of my dearest friends. When we worked together, he always called himself the sherriff and I was his deputy. We laughed and cried together, we were at the hospital on several occasions when one of our parishioners passed away and shared so many meaningful and happy memories. I have missed him so much these few years but did get to talk to him about a year ago. What a treasure and obedient servant of God he was. The number of people whose lives he changed and touched are countless. He taught me so much about life, people, God and myself.
I loved him dearly and he will forever be in my heart. My love to Vera, Andrea and the rest of the kids. Most of all, my love to you,
Carolyn, you were Richard's world and he loved you so much. I love you, too.
Eddie sends his love and regrets as well. God bless you all,
Lisa Hardcastle
Barbara Sullivan
October 21, 2009
To Carolyn and all your family, Tom and I want you to know how saddened we are by this news. We pray for you that God's unfathomable peace and blessing will be your strength and hope at this time of grief. We were blessed to know Richard. With our love.
John Wesley Moore
October 21, 2009
I came to know and appreciate this man of God when he became our pastor at First United Methodist Church in Waco, Texas. He impressed me as all that has been written in this guest book and more. I have fond memories of my mother and me being in his services at that beautiful church. This man of God touched a lot of lives and is a great example of what a Christian should try to be. I know his parents must surely have been proud of him. I know there will be at least one member of long standing at FUMC of Waco to greet him with a loving smile and remembrance in one, my mother, MaryDell Moore. I know a better place will now be saved for me at the table. Thank God for Jesus, and all He did for us.
My sincere sympathy to Richard's family.
John Wesley Moore, Waco Texas
~
John Wesley Moore,
Union City, Tennessee
? ? "Be not thou far from me, O LORD: O my strength, haste thee to help me."
Michelle Freeman
October 21, 2009
Rev. Penna was my minister as a teenager and helped me to make the decision to be baptised at the age of 18. Jerry chism and Rev. Penna performened the baptism at Lake Grapevine with all of the youth there to witness. He started me on my faith journey, at present I'm the director of youth ministries at a UMC. I give thanks for Rev. Penna and the path that he helped me to find. My prayers are with his family.
Jim Chandler
October 21, 2009
God bless Richard's family. Richard, Bob Holloway and I would get together and share many church growth ideas since the three of us were serving over 10 years each in our three parishes in the early '90's. We were a lot of help to one another and we understood the value of relationships in longterm pastorates. Richard loved people and I will always remember that smile. Go with God Richard. Amen
Teddy Ward
October 21, 2009
Our family will always remember Richard's joyful laugh, spontaneous enthusiasm and wonderful thought provoking sermons he brought to our small church in Fentress (Fentress United Methodist Church). We will never forget the first "annual" church festival when Carolyn and Richard rode horses in the parade.
Since we found out we lived close to each other here in Houston, we were planning to all get together this month and go out to dinner. We are so sorry it didn't happen.
We are so sorry for your loss and pray for you and all your family.
Teddy and Richard Ward
Cindy Pack
October 21, 2009
Richard you will be missed ,but we know you are walking the streets of gold with Jesus..
My prayers are with the Family.
Johanna Morgan Jones
October 21, 2009
I was a charter member of Genesis UMC with Richard as our pastor. Richard always had time for me when I was in need of a prayer. He was good to my family. Richard had a unique way of making every person feel like they were the only ones that mattered at the time. I last spoke with Richard 9 years ago when my mother passed away. His words, as always, had a warmth about them as only he could express. Richard was a friend and I will miss his presence on earth. My heartfelt thoughts go out to his family.
Ruth Greer
October 21, 2009
Richard was very special to the Greer family of Martin Methodist in Bedford.
Not only was he special as our minister
but also as a family friend. He performed three marriage ceremonies for our three daughters, encouraged us
to be mindful of our blessings and even
made me wear his "Round toit" button a couple of times. I won't elaborate on that one. He definitely had a positive effect on me, Charlie and our dauthters.
In loving memory - Ruth Greer
Richard & Kay Mason
October 20, 2009
I am sad to learn of Rev. Penna's passing. He was our first minister when we moved to Texas from New York. We joined the William C Martin church right off and found a new understanding of Gods love through his sermons. Our three children were taken with him right away and became closer to the Lord through his teachings. He married our second son Darrin officiating with Rev Thomas Q Robbins shortly after he moved to Genesis. We visited Genesis a couple of times to hear him preach. Richard was such a wonderful man of God and I know he is at home with our Lord. I know you will all miss him. Our family sends our love and prayers. He will be missed and hard to replace.
Mary K Gardner
October 20, 2009
I only learned of Richard's passing this morning, the day of his funeral. In church on Sunday, my mind drifted for some reason, and I remembered the time at William C. Martin on Good Friday when he darkened the sanctuary and sang, "...and I'll rise again." To this day, I can still hear his gorgeous bass voice that particular night. He had such a profound impact on my life as a Christian, a wife, a mother, and a teacher. I will never forget the warmth that he spread with his smile and his love for Jesus Christ that radiated from within. We have lost a friend and wonderful former pastor; often I had wondered where his journey had taken him as we moved from the metroplex many years ago, but today, I know where he is! My condolences to the family. A part of him remains with so many people whose lives he touched as he brought us closer to our Lord - one day may we all meet again.
Emily Mills Michero
October 20, 2009
Richard instilled in me a belief of God's grace and love and I will forever be grateful to him and how he impacted my childhood and my life. So many of my favorite memories are connected to Genesis and Richard. As an adult I can now realize how important and special he was, he will never be forgotten.
Denise (Powell) Wisbrock
October 20, 2009
When we were looking for a church home and a place to teach our children about God, we visited Genesis UMC and found God living there and doing His work through Richard. I have no doubt that Richard is dancing with Jesus today. We all will miss him and vow to share his wisdom. Carrie, Andrea and Lindsey - may God hold you in his comforting arms and memories of your dad bring you joy and laughter all your days.
In Christ's name....
Denise (Powell) Wisbrock
Katy Bliss
October 20, 2009
I feel honored I got to know Dr Penna. He was there as a friend and a pastor for my family during many stressful medical emergencies. He also conducted the Baptism of my son who is now 4. I feel heartbroken for his family. He is a wonderful man. His legacy will live on.
Terri Sexton
October 20, 2009
My husband and I were members of Genesis UMC for 7 years. Richard was a shepherd to us in our early years of marriage. He counseled us, baptized our two sons and even performed a private 5th anniversary wedding ceremony for Greg and me. We were deeply touched by his faith, his preaching and his friendship.
We pray that you feel the Lord's presence and comfort during your time of grief.
Kathi Bliss
October 20, 2009
I was blessed to come to know Richard and Carolyn while they were at the First United Methodist Church in Fentress. I'll never forget - I was in something of an "argument" with God, and my parents told me of the wonderful, fun and insightful minister at their church, and encouraged me to check it out.
I did, and Richard's words were instrumental in bringing me back to a place of peace in my faith.
I will always pray that on some level, he knew what a profound impact he had on me, and on my family.
My thoughts and prayers are with Carolyn and the kids, and the rest of Richard's family and friends.
Beth Shirley
October 20, 2009
My family and I came to know and love Richard when he pastored the Fentress United Methodist Church. When you first met Richard you knew that this was a man who would have a huge impact on your life, and whom you would never forget. One Sunday we were preparing for communion, and found we didn't have enough grape juice. My husband joked to Richard that we had a bottle of wine at home, that he would go and get. Richard laughed, with that twinkle in his eye and said, "I was Italian before I was a preacher!" My son and daughter in law aren't members of any church, but they attended services with us in Fentress. Richard had been moved to Hainey Chapel at that time, but they were so inspired by Richard, that only Richard would do when it came time to baptize their son. We have many pictures of that day, and we will always remember Richard with love and admiration. Our deepest sympathy to Carolyn and the family. God bless you and give you the comfort and strength you need to get through this time.
Betty Haydon
October 20, 2009
Richard was an inspiration to me in my early years of marriage. He was available to us all and with him I began my true journey of my relationship with my Father. May God be with Richard's family during this time. Betty Haydon ( Atlanta , Ga.)
Robert Heil
October 20, 2009
My thoughts and prayers to all of Richard's family.
Richard was my pastor, my friend and my neighbor. I will always remember the first time I met him - I was struck by his overflowing joy.
I will miss his joyful laugh and his full embrace of life.
Rev Mr Dennis & Val Nesser
October 20, 2009
We were both so saddened by the notice of Richard's death. I worked for Genesis UMC for over 7 years and though it was not my home parish (I was Catholic), it was my 2nd home church. I say I worked for Genesis, because though Richard was my boss, he was more than that - he was a true friend to me, to my husband and to our young adult kids.
Richard's smile and laughter as well as his "Bear Hugs" were all anyone needed to feel happy for the whole day. Richard G. Penna was a minister to ALL. I remember his office had a little bit of Jewish, a little bit of Catholic, and a lot of love always for all. He told me once that his dad was burried out of a Methodist church with a catholic scapular around his neck and the rosary in his hands. He said he covered all basis.
Dennis & I enjoyed the many sermons we heard him give. They were always positive, joyful and full of hope. He truely did God's work on earth.
We knew Richard's 1st wife, Amy, and his daughters. To each of you, Carrie, Andrea, and Lindsey, our deepest sympathies and prayers for God's Healing power and peace.
Carolyn, we only met briefly on a visit to Texas while we lived in England. May the Good Lord grant you and your sons peace knowing he is in Our Father's arms this day.
Though it has been many years since we last saw Richard and his new family, he will be greatly missed. Our prayers and love are with him this day.
James Young
October 20, 2009
Father's Day 1988, Genesis UMC, Ft.Worth, was the first time I heard Richard Penna preach. It was the first time that I had REALLY heard the message of God's grace, peace, and unmerited favor for me. I have never forgotten that day.
Jan Greer/Elsom
October 19, 2009
Our world will miss such a great man and friend.
I grew up at William C. Martin UMC in Bedford with "Preacher Penna" as we called him. He could warm anyone's heart with his big smile and big hugs. I remember him at a youth dinner teaching us "the right way-the New Yorker way" to twirl up speghetti onto your spoon.
I baby sat many times for the girls and loved playing with them.
After moving away and going to college I called upon Preacher Penna to marry my husband I, of 26 years now. We still laugh about how he was a little reluctant at the time to marry us without my parents knowing. It meant a lot to me that he counciled us and performed our cerimony. Mom and Dad approved!
Lots of special memories! My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
October 19, 2009
I was very shocked and saddened to read the news in the paper today. I hadn't talked to Richard in years, but always thought I would someday.
Richard and his sweet family were very dear to me and my family in the Genesis days. He helped me through a very painful time in my life and also
shared joy in my life as he married me and my husband, Jack.
I hope Richard had many joyful days with the grandchildren. My sympathy to all the family. Richard was a special man.
Susan Eatherly
October 19, 2009
we came to know Richard at William C Martin methodist church in Bedford, Texas. His smile and laugh were such a wonderful memory. He also married our daughter and sin in law in 1993. What a shock to hear of his dearh at such a young age Our prayers are with his children and family. John and Ilona Mullins
Chrysanne Mason
October 19, 2009
I'm not sure who will remember other than Vera, but I wanted to pass along my condolences and deep sorrow. Richard was my first minister after moving to Texas and to this day has had the biggest Christian impact on my life. He was the minister who first got me interested in Jesus as a real part of my life and not just as a religious figure. He took my brothers and me through confirmation and with us through several family milestones including my brothers' weddings and my grandfathers funeral. I love him dearly and will miss him. But, I know we will all see him again in glory and tonight he is resting in the arms of the saviour he dedicated his life to.
October 19, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Bob & Nancy Spickelmier
Richard Miller
October 19, 2009
Too All the Penna Family, those I knew from twenty years past at Genesis and his newer family and his family of origin - my sympathies. Richard is gone too soon - but in his time I know there is surely a God that is is surely saying well done my good and faithful servant. He was always that! - to me, to my family, to a passerby, to his congregations and I will miss knowing he is here. He could wrap those great big arms around so many.
Richard M
Dallas, Texas
October 19, 2009
Not only was Richard our minister at William C Martin Methodist In
Bedford, he was a wonderful
friend to our family. Richard performed the marriage of two of my daughters.
Our heartfelt sympathy to the Penna family.
Billie and Don Felts
Euless, Texas
Rev. Patty Bergfield
October 19, 2009
I want to offer my deepest condolences to your family. Richard was my youth pastor at Matthews Memorial Methodist Church in Ft. Worth. I remember him as very funny and also very passionate about God. He led our youth group on a retreat to Colorado where I was deeply touched by God through Richard. He certainly influenced my life from that young age. I wish I could tell him the impact he had on my life and that I am now a Methodist minister. I pray God's comfort upon your family in this time of grief and hope that you'll find joy in all these stories of the fruit of Richard's ministry in serving God.
Jeff Davidson
October 19, 2009
I am very saddened by the news of the loss of Richard, a wonderful man and a very blessed preacher. Our family got to know Richard at Northwest Hills United Methodist Church in Austin. He had an uncanny way of delivering God's Word in such a warm, caring and clever way. With his personal anecdotes, right-on analogies and keen interpretations of the Word, Richard's message always had a way of touching our hearts and sending us away with a powerful lesson or outlook that made us better people. I will also remember his warm bear hugs and how personable he was. When you were with Richard, you felt like the most important person and you knew that he would do anything to help you. Carolyn and family, I am deeply sorry for your loss. God bless you and God bless you Richard.
Tish Burklund
October 19, 2009
We first meet Dr. Penna at St. Pauls UMC in Austin, Tx. At the time my Husband and I were dating and then later on we Married and Dr. Penna performed our ceremon, and shortly after welcomed our children to the church.
We enjoyed his ministries, he definetly kept us awake with his childhood stories of the butcher shop. His smiles is contagious and his passion and belive for the written word even more so.
He has touched so many lives....
Our deepest sympathy.
Robby, Tish, Caroline and Tex Burklund
Dan Hays
October 19, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with Richard's family right now. He will be greatly missed. He was my youth minister at the old Mathews Memorial Methodist, and he had such a warm and caring spirit! I would often go by his office at the church after school at Paschal. I remember how he gently guided me to a greater, more loving understanding of God. He was an anchor for me during a very turbulent time in my life, and I will always be grateful for that.
In 1997 Richard and I reconnected in Austin when he was at Northwest Hills UMC. We sat in his office and talked for an hour or more, and it was just as comfortable as when we used to visit in Fort Worth. He had such an infectious smile, and it just drew you in to him!
Richard was a true man of God, and I miss him.
Dan Hays
Chris Hyde
October 19, 2009
Dear Penna family. I too was sadened by the news of Richard's passing. Some of my fondest childhood memories were at Genesis United Methodist. I still remember the weekly sermons filled full of life lessons and the word of God. I will never forget the Sunrise services on Easter Sunday or the huge table of donuts at the back of the church. My condolonces go out to Andrea, Carrie, and Lindsey your father was a great man. You will be in out hearts and prayers....
Terry Baxter
October 19, 2009
My prayers and sincere sympathy to Richard's family. I remember Richard from his days as Youth Director at the then Matthews Memorial Methodist, now University United Methodist in Fort Worth. He was a great guy and he'll be missed by many!
Chris Hyde
October 19, 2009
Penna family-
I too was stunned when I found out about the loss. Some of my fondest childhood memories included Genesis and Dr. Penna. I always enjoyed the stories and the life lessons shared each and every Sunday. I will never forget the sunrise services on Easter Sunday or the huge table full of donuts at the back of the church....
Thank you for all of the lives you touched and the many people you brought to know Jesus Christ.
You will be in our hearts and prayers...
Richard at Genesis United Methodist Church---1993
October 19, 2009
Mary Dan Hayes
October 19, 2009
My prayers go out to Richard's family. He was a very special pastor for my extended family at Martin Methodist. My father Jack Pool became disabled and Richard was a true and faithful pastor to my whole family including preaching my father's funeral. On a happier note he married my brother Jay and his wife of 28 years.
What I admired most about Richard was that he was a pastor to all his "flock". From the most prominent member of the congregation to the young man who was in jail at the time. God Bless you Richard. May you rest in peace. Mary Dan Hayes
Dennis & Connie Ellis
October 19, 2009
Our deepest sympathy to Dr. Penna's family. We met him at Northwest Hills UMC in Austin and thought very highly of him. It is such a shock to us to hear of his passing.
October 19, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad time. May you find peace in the memories you will forever have.
Clyde and Becky Ridge
Warren Marks
October 19, 2009
I have not seen Richard since his days at Texas Wesleyan College but I remember when I heard that he was going to be a pastor and thought that it would be a great calling for him as he met all the requirements I would like in a pastor. Among the requirements was humor. He had a great sense of humor. I still remember him memorizing the Bill Cosby record of Noah and the Ark and then entertaining his TWC friends and even kids at Glen Lake Camp with his rendition of the record. He was truly a unique individual and is a great loss to all who knew him. My sympathy goes out to his family and friends.
Nancy & Bob Spohn
October 19, 2009
Our prayers and thoughts are for all of Richard's family and friends. If there is anything we can do for his family please let us know.
Richard touched so many lives. For it was Richard who brought me to God. He married my husband and I sixteen & a half years ago.
I remember back in the 1980's I ran into Richard at Albertson's.
I saw him standing by the bakery. I said hi to him and he gave that big ol' Richard smile and said hi back.
We talked abit and then I started to open the glass door to where the cookies were.
Richard put his hand on the glass door and closed it back and said; "Cookies are bad for you. You shouldn't eat them".
After that guilt set in and I took his advice and passed the cookies up. I agreed with him, thanked him for looking out for me. Then we said goodbye to each other and I walked away.
As I looked back I saw
Richard G. Penna open the same cookie door as I did, reach in and take the same cookies I was going to take. He put them in a plastic bag and walked away smiling.
I laughed and yelled out to him; "Bad for ya, huh?" Richard looked back at me, smiled and said; "Well.."
I will miss that smile and humor that only Richard could give. May God bless him always.
We love you and will miss you Richard.
Love Nancy & Bob Spohn.
October 19, 2009
To the Family of Dr. Richard Penna,
We would like to express our deepest sympathy in the passing of Dr. Penna. We met Dr. Penna while he was the pastor at Northwest Hill United Methodist Church in Austin, Texas. We became close with him and he was one of the main reasons we joined the church. He baptized our first born child, Matthew, so he will always be close in our hearts. He will be dearly missed!
The Clark Johnson Family
Clark, Rosalind, Matthew and Ella
Austin, Texas
David Henry
October 19, 2009
Dear Folks,
I'm stunned by the news. My heart is with all of you. I thought so very highly of Richard; he was a delightful, wonderful, witty man despite the handicap of being born a Yankee.
He was a true inspiration in life because he wasn't perfect, nor ever pretended to be. He was born to serve God, but never forgot he was also one of the greater flock that encompasses all humanity. I'm proud to have called him "pastor" - more so, to call him my "friend". He will be greatly missed.
Say Andrea ... why not write your "old" first boss sometime? ... I'd love to hear from you and what the years have brought you. Still smart and pretty? I'd bet on that - just like your sisters.
My love and thoughts are with all of you who were blessed by having this fine man in your family and lives. I also knew Richard was a great "Dad" who adored all his daughters (at the time we met all he had been blessed with were daughters - but that was many, many years ago).
I'm sure he continued to change lives, enrich spirits, teach knowledge, and offer hope and healing until the end of days.
Well done! my dear friend, Richard.
Jesse Northcutt
October 19, 2009
I would like to extend my sincere sympathy to Richard's wife, children and extended family in light of his passing from us. Richard was my first youth pastor in Fort Worth and a dear friend of my family. I last saw him in early December 2006 when he kindly officiated at my older sister's funeral. I will always remember his love for the Lord, for people and his ability to brighen anyone's day.
Hilde Sanders
October 19, 2009
Words cannot express the shock of losing Pastor Penna. Carolyn, it all makes sense now, why Richard followed your dream job. God was preparing a life for you without your dear Richard. Know that Richard is in a special place, and know that there are so many people praying for your comfort. And to his children, I can't imagine losing a dad like Richard, I'm so sorry for your loss. God bless and comfort you. He's only a conversation away. God bless all his family and friends who are morning him. He was a great man. He had such a compassion for Jesus Christ our Lord and God our Father. And it came pouring out in his sermons. He touched so many of us with Gods word. He will live on inside of us until we meet again.
Nancy McDonald
October 19, 2009
Dr. Penna,
You led me to accept Christ and baptized me when I was 12. Because it was you, it stuck. Changed my life. How thankful I was to serve in the youth ministry years later in Waco under your leadership. Enjoy your time now, in the presence of God Almighty. I will miss you and all you stood for. I've never known a better minister since. Sincerely,
Nancy Bensinger McDonald
Frank and Connie Schnell
October 19, 2009
We will all miss Richard. My fondest memory of him is when he rode up on horseback to hold a arbor church service. He had never been on a horse before, and It just told you how willing he was to do anything to spread the word of God. He was a wonderful preacher and friend.
Or prayers go out to his family and friends.
Showing 1 - 65 of 65 results
Make a Donation
in RICHARD PENNA's name
Memorial Events
for RICHARD PENNA
How to support RICHARD's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor RICHARD PENNA's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
