It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, William (Bill) Joseph Penney, who passed away peacefully on February 27, 2022 at the MacGillivray Guest Home. Born and raised in Whitney Pier, NS, he was the son of the late William Penney and Anne (Rowe) Penney. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Thelma (MacNeil), daughters Colleen (the late Donnie McPhee), Sydney, Angela (Rick Graham), Bedford and sons Bill (Ursula MacKinnon), Stillwater Lake, Greg (Shelley MacLean), Sydney and Michael (Insook Kim) Burnaby, BC, grandchildren Janet, Brad and Paul McPhee, Steven and Matthew Graham, Brianne Penney (Blair O’Neill), Brett Penney, Willa and Nina Penney, great grandchildren Charlie Marie and Mylie McPhee and Costa O’Neill. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brother Fred Harris, sisters Bess Appleton, Rita Russell, Louise Foote and Betty Harvey.
Bill would say that he was lucky to have been born into the family he was and growing up he always felt loved and appreciated by all of them, regardless of their different family backgrounds. His wife and children have always been a source of comfort and pride for him. Not just for their personal achievements, but for the people they are, and he always hoped that their children would bring them as much joy. We can all confirm that his hopes have been achieved.
Bill and Thelma raised their family on Harold Street, Sydney, where many wonderful memories and friendships were made and enjoyed to this day.
Bill was educated in Sydney, and after graduating from Sydney Academy, he was employed by Dominion Steel and Coal Company/Sydney Steel Corporation for 42 years, when he retired in 1990 as manager of Industrial Relations. He was a member of St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Parish, formerly St. Joseph’s, where he was a Eucharistic Minister, a member of the Parish Council and Men’s Club for over 30 years. He also served two, three year terms as a Board Member of Cape Breton University and he served with the Whitney Pier Air Cadet Squadron 587 for 10 years.
Bill was always kind, loving, generous and a gentleman to all. We loved him so much and will miss him dearly.
Cremation has taken place and the funeral mass will be held Saturday, March 5, 2022 at 11:00am at St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Catholic Church, 40 Cabot St., Sydney with Fr. Bill Burke officiating. Covid protocols will be followed. Inurnment to take place at a later date. Those unable to attend may join the livestream via TW Curry’s Facebook page.
Special thanks to the staff of MacGillivray Guest Home and 4 North, Glace Bay Hospital for their kindness and for the wonderful and compassionate care they provided. Memorials can be made to the charity of your choice. Memories and words of comfort can be shared with the family by visiting www.twcurry.com.
