Obituary of James Gary Penney

James (Jim) Gary Penney

Corner Brook, NL 

February 25, 1983 - May 15, 2026

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved son, grandson, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, great-uncle, nephew, cousin and friend, James (Jim) Penney, born in Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador, on February 25, 1983. He came into this world early and left us far too soon.

Jim is leaving to mourn his loving parents, Shirley and Gary Penney; his sister Mandy (Chris); his niece Caitlin; his nephew Declan; his great-niece Mila; and his grandmother, Nanny Northcott (Donna). He was predeceased by his beloved grandparents, Grandfather Penney (James), Granddad Northcott (Tom), Poppy Spearns (Jerome) and Nanny Spearns (Mildred). Jim leaves behind many loving aunts and uncles who meant so much to him throughout his life. Martha and Pops, Eileen and Junior, Bob and Kelli, Eugene, Rome and Lisa, Guy and Cora, Evelina, Angela, Doug and Louise, Colleen and Joey, Brent and Donna, Mildred, Marilyn and Doug. He was predeceased by his aunts Kim, Maureen and Geri.

Jim also shared many fond memories with his cousins over the years, too many to name individually, but each held a special place in his life, and all loved him dearly. He looked forward to time with our close family friends’ “Uncle” Dave and Edith whose constant presence and support was there during Jim’s last days with us.  Bob Howell, Jim’s caregiver and friend, showed a level of care and kindness that meant so much to Jim and to our family. We acknowledge the profound loss felt by all who loved Jim and shared in his life over the years. To all of you, thank you. We know who you are, and we feel your love surrounding our family.

Jim worked at Marble Inn, the Sir Richard Squires Building and later at Coleman’s, where he was incredibly proud of his work and never wanted to miss a day. He took pride in doing things properly and would often come home and tell Mom the right way to do her chores. He received perfect attendance awards throughout school and was honoured with the Humanitarian Award, a reflection of the kind, caring person he was. He faced the world with quiet strength, gentleness, and a deep care for others.

From the time he was little, Jim was full of energy and curiosity, always getting into something, always on the move, and making people smile. He was a sweet boy with a gentle heart, a quiet toughness, and a resilience that stayed with him throughout his life. Anyone who met Jim remembers his piercing blue eyes, impossible to forget and often one of the first things people noticed about him. Even when he was hurting, he rarely complained. He never wanted anyone to worry about him. After breaking his femur and spending time in St. John’s, he kept reassuring everyone that he was okay despite what he was enduring. No matter what he was facing, he always made sure others were okay.

The simple things in life made Jim happiest; routines, connections, good food, familiar places, and the people he loved. He was a giant wrestling fan going out to watch the main events and looking forward to the smackdowns. Jim loved spending time with family and friends. He also enjoyed his visits to Nova Scotia where he got spoiled rotten by our big family. He loved spending time at the cabin, sitting around the fire, walking and feeding the birds. Around town, he was a familiar face, whether at Tim Hortons or the mall to stop by and relieve the ladies at the lotto booth. He had a witty sense of humour that caught people off guard and made those around him laugh. Jim was deeply loved.

Jim adored his big sister Mandy. Growing up, he wanted to go wherever she went, and later in life he would count down the days until her visits home. His dad was always his biggest protector, and Jim felt safe knowing Dad always had his back. Dad could always make him laugh, and the bond they shared was unwavering. He loved his dad so much. More than anything, Jim loved his mom. They were tied at the hip. She was his best buddy, and whether they were running to the grocery store or Walmart, playing Dash on the iPad, or simply spending time side by side, their bond was undeniable.

During his time in hospital, the compassion shown to him meant so much to our family. Many nurses and staff members recognized him instantly, and when he left the ward, they lined up to say goodbye because they had grown to love him too. We would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses and healthcare staff who cared for Jim with such compassion and dignity throughout his journey. The kindness shown to him and to our family during his final days will never be forgotten.

Jim’s gentle spirit, kind heart, and quiet strength will be missed beyond words. Though our hearts are broken, we are deeply grateful for the years, memories, laughter, and love we shared with him.

Visitation will be on Friday, May 22^nd from 6pm-8pm and a Service will be held on Saturday, May 23^rd at 2:00 p.m. officiated by Reverend Jocelyn Cook. Both will be held at Fillatre’s Funeral Home, 4 St. Mark’s Avenue, Corner Brook, NL. Following the service a reception will be held in the Post Reception room, all are welcome to join us. Interment will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Western Regional Hospital Foundation (709-784-5353) in support of palliative care and comfort resources for patients and families navigating end-of-life care.