Thomas "Tom" Courtney Pennington, Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, peacefully passed into eternity on April 21, 2023. Tom was born on November 19, 1940 in New Orleans, Louisiana, and was known for his driven, intelligent, and dedicated nature throughout his life.

Tom is survived by his loving wife Kay Wood; his daughters, Rebecca Pennington Powell and Jennifer Pennington Adams; his sister, Sharon Pennington Hiatt; and his grandchildren, Waverly Rowan Powell and Bridger Banks Powell. Tom was predeceased by his parents, Courtney and Myrtle Pennington, and his brother, Jerry Pennington. He also leaves behind his sons-in-law, John Powell and Dave Adams, and his first wife and the mother of his children, Barbara Thomas Pennington.

A man of varied interests, Tom enjoyed photography, a beautifully cooked steak, listening to Led Zeppelin and the Rolling Stones, writing poetry, and admiring Abstract Impressionist art. An avid LSU Tigers fan, he loved watching college basketball, baseball, and football. A lover of wildlife, he supported environmental causes and loved to dig and plant in his garden, even receiving his Master Gardener certification. Tom cherished his time vacationing with his children at state parks in Texas and campgrounds in Canada, visiting art museums in Chicago, swimming at Florida beaches, and visiting his grandchildren in North Carolina, where he especially loved Duke Gardens, Jordan Lake, and the Southern Outer Banks. 

Above all, Tom treasured Kay, his beautiful, loving, and gracious wife and soul mate of 23 years, in whom he found friendship, solace, and true love; his daughters, Becky and Jenny; and his grandchildren, Waverly and Bridger. 

Tom's legacy includes obtaining a degree certificate from Harvard University and sharing his wisdom, ambition, and incredible work ethic. His online community of fellow gardeners will fondly remember him for his passion and expertise. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Arbor Day Foundation in Tom's memory. Contributions can be made at the following URL: https://everloved.com/life-of…

Tom will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. His enduring spirit and the valuable lessons he imparted will continue to inspire and guide those left behind.

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