Mr. Oscar B. Penn Jr.

Mr. Oscar B. Penn, Jr., 79, of Peoria, IL, passed peacefully on Sunday, February 19, 2017 at 11:59 am at OSF Richard Owens Hospice Home in Peoria, IL. Oscar was born on April 29, 1937 in Terry, Mississippi to the late Mr. Oscar B. Penn, Sr. and Jessie E. Holly-Penn. He was the oldest of four siblings. He confessed a hope in Christ at an early age at Grace Missionary Baptist Church and became active in the Usher Board Ministry. He had his earliest education in Peoria, Illinois and graduated from Peoria High School. He worked in the Caterpillar industry for three years. He served in the United States Army for three years and 27 years for the National Guard where he achieved the highest Rank of Sergeant First Class and also served as Supervisor over heavy equipment. He was last employed at the Los Angeles Convention Center in California. While living in California, he attended the Mt. Tabor MB Church. In 1998 he was wedded to Verlene Rogers-Walls. In 2006, they relocated to Florissant, Missouri where they attended Olivet Baptist Church. In 2011, they relocated to Peoria, Illinois where they reunited at Grace MB church. Oscar was a die-hard Lakers fan and would always talk about Kobe Bryant. He was a quiet and gentle person but would keep you laughing at the comments he made. He loved his family and they loved him. Oscar's health began to decline, but God blessed him to have very loving caregivers. He leaves to cherish his precious memories his loving wife, Verlene Walls-Penn of Peoria; one son, Kevin Penn of California; one daughter, KaShawndra (Marquise) Brown of Compton, CA; one sister, Margarite Sydnor of Peoria; one brother, Carl Penn of Peoria; four grandchildren; five step children; eleven step-grandchildren; seven step great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Lilluette Lewis; one brother-in-law, Norman Sydnor and one sister-in-law, Bernice Penn. Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Saturday, February 25, 2017 at Grace Baptist Church with a visitation one hour prior beginning at 10 am. Pastor Claude L. White, Jr., will officiate. Oscar will be laid to rest at Lutheran Cemetery. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at simonsmortuary.com

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Mr. Oscar B. Penn Jr.

April 29, 1937 - February 19, 2017