Obituary of Anthony Thomas Penny

Anthony Thomas Penny, 67, of Hopkins, passed away peacefully at his home on January 6, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Anthony was born on June 29, 1956, in Worcester, Massachusetts, to Robert and Virgina Penny. He graduated from Saint John’s High School in 1974 where he played football under Coach Bob Bradley. He then went on to play football on scholarship at the University of South Carolina, serving as team captain in 1978. He played under Paul Dietzel and Jim Carlen, learning not only about football but also about life. Soon after college, Anthony met the love of his life, Cleste Briere Penny. The two shared many wonderful memories and experiences together, but their favorite was the birth of their beautiful daughter, Lacie, in 1997.

Anthony was a devout Christian who encouraged everyone he met to pursue a relationship with the Lord. He spent hours diving into Scripture and learning how to continually live a Godlier life. He knew his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, who served as his rock. Throughout his cancer battles and life’s challenges, he held fast to the promise of eternity where his body would be fully restored. Anthony loved serving in missionary work and completed many mission trips to Nicaragua where he helped provide basic necessities to local residents while spreading the Good News.

Outside of his professional and community life, Anthony had a passion for Carolina football and being an avid outdoorsman. Whether he was hunting or simply appreciating nature's beauty, Anthony found solace in the great outdoors. He had a contagious laughter that lit up any room and was known for his ability to make people laugh. His zest for life and infectious sense of humor brought joy to all those fortunate enough to know him. Anthony touched the lives of all who knew him with his kindness, humor, and compassion.

Anthony’s life was spent surrounded by a large and loving family. He was preceded in death by his wife, Cleste Briere Penny; his parents, Robert Penny Sr. and Virginia Penny; and his sister, Mary St. Armand. Their memory forever held a special place in Anthony's heart.

Anthony's legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the family he leaves behind. He is survived by his daughter, Lacie Penny Roberts (Austin), his siblings, Robert Penny II (Leslie), Carol Haude, Stephen Penny Sr., John Penny Sr., Ann Severance, Richard Penny (Dayna), Cheryl Jordan, Kenneth Briere, as well as his parents-in-law, Jack and Ruby Briere, and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Visitation will be held on Monday, January 15, 2024, from 11 AM to 1 PM at Beulah Baptist Church on Garners Ferry Road in Hopkins, South Carolina. The funeral service will begin at the church at 1 PM, with a procession to graveside burial immediately following. The service will be a time to reflect on the precious memories shared with Anthony and to offer comfort to one another during this difficult time.

Anthony Thomas Penny will be dearly missed by all who knew him. His spirit, love, and laughter will forever remain in our hearts, serving as a reminder to cherish every moment and to always find joy in life's simplest pleasures. May he rest in eternal peace.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Anthony's honor. Contributions can be sent via check to the American Cancer Society – Charleston Hope Lodge at 269 Calhoun St., Charleston, SC 29401. Your generosity will support their mission and ensure that others facing cancer receive the care and support they need. From our family to yours, thank you for all the love and support.