William Carl Pennington

William Carl Pennington, known as Billy to his friends and family, passed away at home on July 18, 2025, in Palmetto, Florida. Born on February 13, 1960, in Germany, Billy was a man of intelligence and talent, whose good heart and skilled hands left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Billy's younger years were spent in Sarasota, Florida, where he attended Sarasota High School. His natural love for mechanics and technology became apparent early on, leading him to a fulfilling career that combined his love for problem-solving and innovation. He spent many years as a small engine mechanic at Kisler's Lawn Mower Repair in Sarasota, and later at Jeffries Service Center in Palmetto. His talents further extended into the world of computing, where he excelled as a computer programmer in Ventura, California. Beyond his professional pursuits, Billy was a man of many interests and hobbies. His passion for building and launching rockets was more than a pastime; Fishing was another of Billy's joys and he cherished the moments spent by the water with his lifelong friends. Billy's family was the cornerstone of his life.
He was the son of William C. Pennington and Betty Jo Pennington (Deceased) and His loving sisters, Becky Jo Thompson and Betsy Smith, along with his respected brother-in-law, Jeff Smith. Billy was a fun and devoted uncle to his niece, Amanda Jo Cope, and his nephew, Derek Thompson. He also took great delight in the growth of his great-nieces, Lia Jo Thompson and Anal Thompson, as well as his great-nephews, Joshua Cope, Jayden Cope, Gavin Thompson, and Jackson Cope. His presence will be greatly missed by his family, who found in him a source of joy and inspiration. Billy is preceded in death by his Mother Betty Jo Pennington, his brother, Brian Eddie Pennington, and his beloved wife, Cathy (Kisler) Pennington. Billy enjoyed life whether it was fixing a stubborn engine or guiding a rocket into the sky. He approached each challenge with a can-do attitude and a heart full of generosity. His legacy is not only in the objects he built and repaired but in the lives, he touched and the smiles he created. As we say goodbye to Billy, we celebrate the life of a man who was not only smart and talented but also deeply loved. He was a shining light in the lives of those who knew him, and his memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of his family and friends. With every rocket that pierces the heavens and every moment spent by the water, we will remember Billy and the remarkable life he led.
He will be laid to rest in Hickory Flat Cemetery in Overpeck, Ohio alongside his mother & brother. A Celebration of Life will be held at Palm Bay MHP - Clubhouse 751 10th Street East, Palmetto. In lieu of flowers donations can be made at GoFundMe - Billy Pennington.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements.