Mary L. Pennell Hoffman
Mary L. Pennell Hoffman, age 88, formerly of Plymouth, died peacefully Saturday March 11, 2017 at Elmcroft of Ontario surrounded by her family.
She was born October 13, 1928 in Shiloh, Ohio the daughter of the late Merton A. and Irene L. (Noble) Benedict. She was a 1946 graduate of Shiloh High School and attended Ashland College where she was a cheerleader. After meeting Lakewood resident Robert Pennell and a 17 day courtship, this Shiloh girl got married and moved to Cleveland where they settled in Berea to raise their family. Prior to having children, Mary was a clothing buyer at Lord & Taylor in Cleveland. Mary was baptized and raised in the Lutheran Church and taught Sunday school when the children were young. After returning to Shelby, she was employed at Shelby Memorial Hospital, Shelby Metal Products and retired from Uforma Shelby Business Forms.
She was active in the Plymouth Legion Auxiliary, was a voracious reader and enjoyed crossword puzzles. She loved to sing having sung on the radio during her college years. An avid sports fan, Mary loved rooting for The Ohio State Buckeyes and the Cleveland Browns.She was instrumental in the early beginnings of Richland Newhope in Mansfield.
Mary is survived by her 5 children: David Pennell of Mansfield, Dana (Jennifer) Pennell of Shelby, Sarah Jose of Ontario, Jacklyn Buckler of Shelby, Roberta Castor of Mansfield; 11 grandchildren; Numerous great grandchildren; a nephew: John “Sam” Elliott of Florida.She was preceded in death by her parents; 1st Husband: Robert H. Pennell; 2nd Husband: Vance C. “Mercy” Hoffman; daughter: Jonnie B. Pennell in 2003; sister: Margy Elliott;and son-in-law: Mark Castor.
Family and friends are welcome on Tuesday, March 14, 2017 from 5-7 PM at the Turner Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby and also on Wednesday, March 15 from 10-11 AM. Funeral services will be Wednesday at 11 AM at the funeral home. Rev. Russel Yoak Pastor of First Lutheran Church, Shelby will officiate. Burial will follow in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Shiloh.
Memorial expressions may be made to Richland Newhope.
To send a condolence or share a memory with the Pennell children, please visit
My Deepest Condolences to all the Pennell Family. Your Mother, what a Great Storyteller. I could listen to her for days! I Loved Growing Up with Your Family! Mary always made sure I ate plenty when I stayed overnight! Loved her Cooking! She will be Sadly Missed by All Who Knew Her. Hugs and I will keep you all in my prayers. God Bless.
So sorry to hear about your mother.
Our deepest sympathy to the Pennell Family. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time. Cherish you memories ad keep them close to your heart. Valerie and Roy Watrous
So sorry for your loss. Will pray for peace at this time in your life.
Dave, I did not know your mother, but what a lovely written tribute. You and all of your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May God be with you and give you strength.