Jenni Elizabeth Pennington's Obituary
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jenni Elizabeth Pennington, who left this world on January 21, 2025, at her home in Spring Hill, Florida, following a battle with Influenza A & B that progressed to pneumonia. She had just celebrated her 44th birthday the day before.
Born on January 20, 1981, in San Diego, California, Jenni was the beloved daughter of Harry and Linda Pennington of Spring Hill, FL. She is survived by her brother Jaason Pennington and his wife Nicole of Coquille, OR, and her sister Jodi Hanson and her husband Chris Hanson of Liberty, MO. She was a devoted aunt to Kaitlyn Pennington, Sophie Deuschle, Jacob Pennington, Spencer Deuschle, and Ryan Hanson. She is also deeply missed by her cherished Uncle Bill and Aunt Elaine Rice of Belton, MO, as well as countless friends and extended family members.
Jenni’s early years were filled with energy, talent, and an undeniable passion for dance. A student at Oak Park High School, she kept her classmates and teachers entertained while excelling as a JV cheerleader, track runner, and member of the award-winning Oak Park Pom Squad. She trained in dance at Miss Diana’s School of Dance and Priscilla & Dana’s, as well as in classical ballet at Ibsen’s. Her talent led her to perform with the UCA Cheer Squad at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. Ever ambitious, she even snuck away for an open-call audition with the Radio City Rockettes, making it to the third round before being disqualified for being too young—an experience she laughed about and vowed to return for in the future.
In April 1998, Jenni’s life was forever changed when she was grievously injured in an automobile accident during her junior year. The accident left her confined to a wheelchair, unable to dance, speak, or even smile, but it never diminished her spirit. Through sheer determination and the unwavering support of her family and dear friends Mike and Cathy Verquer, she found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She cherished camping trips, swimming, and even riding her jet ski at Smithville Lake.
Determined to keep exploring, Jenni and her family embarked on adventures in their RV, traveling in comfort and making beautiful memories. With encouragement from her sister Jodi, they took a family trip to California, enjoying beach days, flower fields, and a magical visit to Disneyland. A winter trip to Disney World made them fall in love with Florida’s warm climate, leading to a move that allowed Jenni and her father to enjoy the sunshine year-round.
Despite the miles, Jenni stayed closely connected to her loved ones. She cherished letters, cards, and photos, lighting up at every update on weddings, babies, and milestone moments. Her love of music remained strong—though she made it clear that her dad’s “old country” was not among her favorites, often responding with eye rolls and heavy sighs.
Jenni’s life was defined by resilience, love, and an indomitable spirit that inspired everyone who knew her. Though she is no longer with us, her memory will live on in the stories we share and the joy she brought into our lives.
Please join us in celebrating Jenni’s life: Friday, April 25, 2025 – Hope Church, 4800 NW 88th Street, Kansas City, MO. Public Visitation: 4:00 – 5:00 PM, followed by a Memorial Service.
A private family burial will take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Lawson Cemetery, Lawson, MO.
May we honor her legacy by embracing life’s little joys, just as she did.
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