Pennie was 3 yrs younger than me and we grew up from very small children with our families as next door neighbours at Walsall Road. I have very fond memories of playing in her "Wendy House" at the bottom of her garden along with her sister, Mandy. We shared such happy memories of tea parties and board games together, fuelled by snacks and drinks from her Mom. I remember the time she had a serious orthopaedic operation when she was about 10 yrs old and she was confined to a special bed and frame in her living room whilst her body was encased in plaster of Paris for several months. I spent many happy hours keeping her company and the courage she showed through all the pain and discomfort was so admirable. Pennie never bemoaned the hand she had been dealt in life and always made the best of things through her stoic personality and cheerfulness. As we grew up our paths diverged but, whenever we met up again, it was as if we just carried on where we left off. During the first lockdown in early 2020 we reconnected via the joys of WhatsApp and resurrected our friendship once more, often chatting on line or by phone and sharing funny jokes. Penny had a wicked sense of humour, just like me, and I will very sadly miss my friendship with her. I know Chelle will miss her deeply but Pennie will continue to live on in our hearts as a wonderful example to us all. She will never be forgotten.
Sylvia Winnett
Sylvia Elaine Winnett
23/12/2021
