James Douglas "Doug" Pennington

James Douglas "Doug" Pennington, born on February 7, 1949, in Leslie County, Kentucky, passed away on December 1, 2025, at the Mary Breckinridge-ARH Hospital in Hyden, Kentucky. He was 76 years old. A retired coal miner, Doug dedicated many years of his life to a career that supported his family and community, embodying the values of hard work and resilience.

Doug was cherished for his passions that went beyond his profession. He found joy in hunting and fishing, skills that allowed him to connect deeply with nature. His love for taxidermy showcased his creativity and appreciation for wildlife, while his craftsmanship in carpentry and woodworking reflected both his talent and dedication. Above all, Doug treasured spending time with his family, relishing moments shared with his grandchildren, who were a source of immense pride and joy for him. Doug was a member of the Smilax Church of Christ at Smilax, Ky.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Barbara Pennington, who stood by him throughout their journey together. Doug is also survived by one son: McKinley "Kenny" Pennington, two daughters, Karen Morgan and her husband, Johnny; and Melissa Boggs and her husband, Benny, two bonus sons, Chris Leary & wife, Jessica and Adam Leary and wife, Katie, are also left to honor his memory. Doug will be remembered fondly by his two brothers, William Isaac Pennington and his wife, Dorothy; and Gillis "Doc" Pennington. His two sisters, Marie Dossett and her husband, Don; and Angie Osborne, along with a sister-in-love, Virginia "Ginny" Pennington, will carry on the memories of their beloved brother.

In addition to his immediate family, Doug is survived by three grandchildren: Kyle and his wife Erica, Chasity and her husband William & Casandra, five bonus grandchildren, Emma, Caroline, Nathaniel, Ava, and Sullivan; and three great-grandchildren: Wrenley, Jensen, and Walker. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and special friends who will remember him affectionately.

Doug's legacy is enriched by the memory of those who have preceded him, including his parents, Isaac Pennington and Katherine Fields Pennington; his first wife and mother of his children, Sarah Turner Pennington; and his brother, Jesse Gary Pennington; nephew, Marty Pennington. Doug also cherished the friendship of Jack McIntyre, who was close to him like a brother.

As a man of the land and a family man at heart, Doug Pennington’s spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him and loved him dearly. His contributions to both his craft and his family will forever be cherished and remembered.

Celebration of Life to honor Doug will be held Thursday, December 4, 2025 at 1:00 P.M. at the Dwayne Walker Funeral Home in Hyden, KY.

Interment will follow in the Whispering Pines Cemetery, Smilax, KY.

The following will serve as Pallbearers, Kenny Pennington, Johnny Morgan, Benny Boggs, Chris Leary, Adam Leary, Rodney Pennington, Kyle Morgan and William Lewis

Honorary Pallbearers, Gillis "Doc" Pennington, William Isaac Pennington, Harold Turner, Butch Caudill and Jerry Fields

Visitation: Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at 5:00 P.M. at the Funeral Home Chapel