Tributes

Caleb Leon Pennie, lovingly called “Pop” “Papa” and “Uncle Rudley” was born December 16, 1932, in Gay Hill, Texas. He passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025, at the age of 92. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he stood as the unwavering cornerstone of his family and a guiding example of honor and integrity. His parents, Lester and Sarah Pennie, took great pride in nurturing him and instilling their family values and principles that equipped him for a life of purpose. On June 2, 1971, Caleb married his beloved soulmate and life partner, Ethel Mathews Pennie, beginning over 54 years of shared laughter, faith, and steadfast companionship. His deep commitment to family radiated through every holiday gathering, backyard barbecue, and quiet evenings, where his warm smile and gentle wisdom united generations. A born-again Christian, Caleb served faithfully as an usher at Progressive Baptist Church in La Marque and later at Galilee Baptist Church in Caldwell, Texas. He exemplified through his servitude, Psalm 84:10 “For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.” His quiet strength and servant’s heart welcomed everyone through the doors of worship, with his warm smile and friendly handshake. By day, he was affectionately known to neighbors and customers as “the butcher” at McFarland’s Food Store on Texas Street, where his friendly banter and careful craftsmanship won countless friendships. Before that, he labored diligently at Sherman Wire in Caldwell, Texas, retiring with pride after decades of honest, hard work. He embodied the true meaning of community and treated others as you want to be treated. In retirement, Caleb and Ethel poured their energies into “Calebeth,” their cherished ranch. There he reveled in the simple joys of ranch life, tending to his land, gardens, casting a line into the water, attending rodeos, and challenging his friends and family to spirited games of dominoes. Ever curious, he delighted in tinkering with old cars and trucks, bringing new life to every car he touched. A stalwart of a man, Caleb’s life was defined by solid principles, tireless work ethic, and boundless love. His legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the laughter he shared, and the countless hearts he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who have the privilege of knowing him. Preceding him in eternal life, son, Alvurn Dale Pennie, parents, Lester and Sarah Pennie, siblings, Elvie, L.C., Add, Abe, Hattie, Dorothy, Nettie, and Chester. Caleb Is the Last of the Lester Pennie Legacy. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, loving wife, Ethel Mathews Pennie, daughter and son in law, Beverly and Jimmie Saldana, grandchildren, Michaelle and Aaron Shankle, Jimmie Saldana III and Andre Saldana, nine great-grandchildren, two God children, generations of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Tributes

Caleb Leon "C.L." Pennie

December 16, 1932 - July 14, 2025