Floral Marjorie Shirley "Penny" Lanier

Floral Marjorie Shirley “Penny” Lanier passed away Saturday, May 24, 2025, in The Butterfly Wing of the Hospice of Baton Rouge at the age of 93. Born on December 21, 1931, in Meridian, Mississippi, she was the fifth child in a family of six children born to Andrew Eugene Shirley, Sr and Flora Gradie Strange Shirley. She was a beloved mother, aunt, Mimi, Great Grandma Penny, and friend. 

Being a woman of great determination all her life and educated in bookkeeping, she held jobs through the years that were a credit to her talents. Everyone who knew her celebrated her active mind and enjoyed her feisty spirit. She totally enjoyed family gatherings and sharing her delicious cooking and baking. She delighted in all things gardening, LSU sports, and shopping.

She is survived by her devoted children, Jeff Pennington (Lynn) and daughter, Marjorie Pennington; grandson, James Pennington; step grandson, Michael Kern (Deborah) and four great-grandchildren, Logan, Owen, Evan, and Gavin Kern, whom she lovingly called “her great grandbabies”. Also surviving is one sister, Glenda Wilkinson of Lucedale, Mississippi, and several nieces and nephews, friends, and extended family who will cherish her memory. 

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her siblings, Irma, Vera, Dorothy, and Andrew Eugene, Jr. “Sonny”. Also preceding her in death was her husband, Jack Pennington. 

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the entire staff of Landmark South and the Hospice of Baton Rouge, Butterfly Wing. There will be a celebration of life for family and friends, at a later date.