Mel Pennington

Mel Pennington, of Hurricane, West Virginia, passed away on December 4, 2014 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was a graduate of Stonewall Jackson High School, and attended Morris Harvey College and West Virginia State College. He retired after 27 years as a sales manager of Lawyers Cooperative Publishing Company. During his employment with LCP, Mel won many awards and honors, as well as various trips to tropical and exotic places. Mel had an interesting working life, although his family and sports always came first. Earlier in his career he worked at various radio stations as manager, sports announcer, and disc jockey. For approximately 12 years, he was known as the “Voice of the Nitro Wildcats.” Later in his life, his pride and joy was watching his grandchildren participate in sporting events such as tennis and basketball. One of his proudest moments was watching his grandson Garrett play for Hurricane High School in the WVSAC State Championship basketball game. His grandchildren both considered him a coach as well as a mentor, because he always encouraged them and never missed a single event. He was also an avid West Virginia University Mountaineer fan. He was preceded in death by his first born daughter Melanne who was Miss West Virginia 1984. He is survived by his devoted and loving wife Sharon Willard, his daughter Melori and husband Mike Forbes, grandchildren McKenzi and Garrett DeFries, and his step-grandchildren Courtney and Drew Forbes. Mel was a hard working and proud man, and because of his love and guidance his family will continue to live their lives by the example he has set. The family will receive friends Friday from 6:00 until 8:00pm at Chapman Funeral Home, Hurricane. Funeral service for Mel will be 11:00am Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Cunningham Memorial Park, St. Albans. The family would like to thank Kanawha Hospice, their family, friends, and neighbors for all the outpouring love and support through this difficult journey. In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial contributions be made in Mel’s name to: Kanawha Hospice Care 1606 Kanawha Blvd. West, Charleston WV 25301. Chapman Funeral Home, 3941 Teays Valley Road, Hurricane WV is honored to handle Mr. Pennington’s arrangements.