Thomas Everette Penn, Sr. departed this life peacefully on August 14, 2026. He was born on August 31,1946, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to the late Minnie T. Penn and Willie Ervin Penn, Sr.

Thomas was educated in the Forsyth County School District before choosing to serve his country. He proudly joined the United States Marine Corps (SEMPER-FI), where he diligently served for three years. During his military service, Thomas served two tours in the Vietnam War and was honored to receive the Purple Heart for his service and sacrifice to our nation.

Following his military service, Thomas was employed with the United States Postal Service, where he worked faithfully until his retirement. One thing Thomas truly enjoyed about retirement was simply being retired. He embraced the opportunity to relax, spend time reading the Word of God, and enjoying life at his own pace. Early in his retirement, he also enjoyed being a gospel disc jockey in the surrounding areas in Winston-Salem.

Thomas was a diehard Dallas Cowboys fan. Anyone who knew Thomas could see his pride and excitement whenever NFL football and Dallas Cowboys were mentioned in his presence. He was also an avid watcher and lover of Western movies, enjoying the stories, characters, and adventures they brought to life.

His love of entertainment extended to music as well. Thomas appreciated a wide variety of musical genres, with one of his favorites being Another Day Older.

Thomas was also a political and historical buff. He enjoyed engaging in political discussions and debates, often challenging others to consider different viewpoints on whatever topic was being discussed. His interest in history kept him curious and engaged, and he could often be found spending time with his buddies at the local service station, enjoying their conversations and fellowship.

Thomas thoroughly enjoyed being spoiled and spending time with his wife of 32 years, Veronica B. Penn. He enjoyed her delicious meals, cakes and her caring nature throughout the years. They loved to travel to Myrtle Beach, SC to enjoy oceanfront views. Thomas loved spending time gazing at and listening to the ocean, one of God’s greatest creations.

Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, Minnie T. Penn and Willie Ervin Penn, Sr.; his sister, Berdie Lee Felder; two brothers-in-law, Robert L. Felder and Andrew Brisbon.

Thomas leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Veronica B. Penn; son, Thomas Penn, Jr. of Winston-Salem; his stepdaughter, Monica Brisbon of Myrtle Beach, SC; three stepsons, Roderick Brisbon (Theresa) of Conway, SC, Antoine Brisbon of Charlotte, NC, and Travis Brisbon (Maria) of Durham, NC; one brother, Willie Ervin Penn, Jr. of Winston-Salem, NC; and two sisters, Alma D. Penn and Doris J. Penn, both of Winston-Salem, NC.

Thomas also leaves to cherish his memory seven sisters-in-law, Jacqueline B. Turner (Tyrone) of Talladega, AL, Frances B. Graham (George) of Conway, SC, Kirby McZeke of Loris, SC, Andrena B. Graham of Colorado Springs, CO, Cynthia B. Grate (Kenneth) of Loris, SC, Pamela Montgomery (Kirk) of Burlington, NC, and Wilmetria Durant (Charles) of Green Sea, SC.

Thomas is also survived by three brothers-in-law, Azariah Brisbon (Betty) of Conway, SC, Wilmore Brisbon, Jr. (Mary) of Chester, VA, and Cedric Brisbon of Green Sea, SC; and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Thomas will be remembered for his love of God, service to his country, his strong opinions and love of a good debate, his passion for football and Western movies, his appreciation for music and history, and, most of all, for the memories and relationships he created with those who knew and loved him.

His life was a testament to his faith, service, family, friendship, and simply enjoying the moments that made life meaningful. Though he has departed this life, his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Wednesday, August 19, 2026 at Russell Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00pm Thursday, August 20, 2026 at the Russell Funeral Home Chapel. The family visitation will be held from 1:30pm until 2:00pm on Thursday at the Chapel. Interment will be held at 9:00am Friday, August 21, 2026 in Salisbury National Cemetery, Salisbury, NC.