Penny Leigh Gentry O'Connell, age 54, died on April 29, 2016 in Horse Shoe, NC. Penny is preceded in death by her beloved, Jerry Vaughn. She is survived by her mother Betty Edney and her pop Jack Edney; sisters, Marlene Gentry, Latrella McElrath (Lee) and Tina Miller (Doug); nieces Shaina Lewis and Emily McElrath, and nephews Cameron Plemmons, Trevor Howell, Steven Shropshire and Robbie Miller. Penny served as a Loan Specialist for Carolina Farm Credit for 30 years and was known for her sunny disposition, genuine love for people and her many furry friends. She enjoyed nature and travel, sharing her experiences through her amazing photography and art. Penny's love of family was unsurpassed, as was her generosity and kindness of spirit. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2:00 PM at Locust Grove Baptist Church, 305 Locust Grove Road in Weaverville, NC on Tuesday, May 3, 2016. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Family will receive friends from 12:30 PM until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Penny's memory can be made to Brother Wolf Animal Rescue. Online condolences can be sent to: www.blueridgefuneralservice.org