Basil Dewey Penny

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Basil Dewey Penny, age 86, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, August 17th, 2023. Mr. Penny passed away peacefully at his home in Piedmont, AL surrounded by family.  

Mr. Penny is survived by his daughter Michele (Rod) Williams; four grandchildren: Jeremy (Kelli) Penny, Lindsey (Tyler) Straits, Nicole Penny, and Jacob Williams (Leyden); five great grandchildren: Madelyn Penny, Chase Penny, Emersyn Straits, Ainsleigh Straits, and Della Straits; several nieces and nephews, dear brother-in-law, Marvin “Bud” Simmons, and beloved daughter-in-law Norma Penny. Mr. Penny is preceded in death by his loving wife of 63 years, Mary Ann Penny; his parents, Gilbert and Cordie Penny; ten siblings: Lora Dean Smith, Edna Earl Penny, James Penny, Curtis Penny, Vivian Harding, Bryson Penny, Grace Jennings, Jane Simmons, Gerald Penny, and Esther Sherman; and loving son Trent Penny. 

Basil was born on December 16th, 1936 in Roy Webb community of Calhoun County, Alabama. He was a loving, supportive, kind, compassionate, husband, father, PawPaw, friend, and devout Christian. Basil was well known for his quick wit and sense of humor. Basil spent most of his life, 43 years, mastering the art of storytelling throughout his career at The Anniston Star. Basil started out in the circulation department before working his way up through the ranks to Associate Editor. Throughout his career, Basil received several awards for his memorable storytelling and journalism. In recent years, Basil wrote two books, “A Penny’s Worth” - Vol. 1 & 2, which highlighted some of his favorite stories spanning over four decades. He also served his country for three years in the National Guard. 

Basil enjoyed spending time with family and dear friends. He loved and cherished his grandchildren and great grandchildren, who adored him as PawPaw. He had a passion for southern gospel music. Basil was a phenomenal pianist. He played piano in church and also played for several gospel quartets from the age of twenty-one until recent years. Basil loved watching Alabama football with Mary Ann and was an avid gardener throughout his life. He enjoyed farming and took great pride in keeping up his family home place in Roy Webb. Basil loved animals so much that a time or two he brought home “the pet of the week” listed in The Anniston Star. 

Basil and Mary Ann built a beautiful life together that will be cherished for generations to come. Sixty-three years of earthly life together with an eternity to follow. 

A service will be conducted by Pastor Garry Brown at Dansby Heritage Chapel in Piedmont, AL on Saturday, August 19, 2023 at 3:00 PM. Visitation will be held from 2:00 -3:00 pm prior to the funeral service. Details will be provided on their website, www.dansbyhc.com. 

Flowers may be sent to Dansby Heritage Chapel. Memorial donations may be made to Nances Creek Baptist Church, Piedmont Rescue Squad or charity of choice. 

Dansby Heritage Chapel is honored to serve the Penny Family.