Shirley Josephine Bowman Pennell

Shirley Josephine Bowman Pennell, age 91, passed away on October 28, 2026, at Gordon Hospice House in Iredell County. Born on July 12, 1935, in Alexander County, Shirley lived a life marked by devotion to her family, faithful work, and simple pleasures that brought her joy. She retired from the United States Postal Service as a mail carrier, a role that reflected her steady nature and commitment. She was also a member of Dover Baptist Church, where her faith was part of the foundation of her life.

Shirley enjoyed watching westerns and gardening, and she especially loved and cherished her family. Those who knew her will remember the care she gave to the people she loved and the quiet happiness she found in time spent with them.

She is survived by her son, Tim Pennell, and daughter-in-law, Anna Pennell; her sister, Diana Bumgarner; her grandchildren, Tara Pennell Geiger and her husband, Robby, Brooke Pennell Trepal and her husband, Shaun, Zachary Pennell and his wife, Bailey, Nicholas Pennell; and her great-grandchildren, Layla Geiger, Jacob Trepal, Leah Trepal, and Landon Geiger. Her family was a lasting source of pride and joy, and her love for them will remain a treasured part of her legacy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Glenn and Bessie Bowman; her husband, Kearney Pennell; her son, Scotty Pennell; her daughter-in-law, Peggy Benfield Pennell; and her brothers, Wavie Bowman, Escar Bowman, and Raven “Sonny” Bowman.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Dover Baptist Church, 3525 Dover Church Road, Taylorsville, North Carolina 28681. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, 4:00 p.m. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Rev. Phil Jolly will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dover Baptist Church, 3525 Dover Church Road, Taylorsville, NC 28681.

Shirley’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Alexander Funeral and Cremation Service.

Condolences may be sent to www.alexfuneralservice.com