Ella Mayhew Pennington McClanahan

Ella M. McClanahan, 97, loving and devoted mother, of 443 Avondale Drive, passed away early Sunday, Sept. 27, 2009. The daughter of the late Ollie C. and Lillie Catherine Mayhew, she was born April 30, 1912, in Sandy Level. Ella spent most of her adult life in Danville. She has now gone to meet her Lord and claim her heavenly rest. Married first to James Andrew Pennington, and later to George Thomas "Tom" McClanahan Sr., she was mother and stepmother in a blended family. Survivors include one daughter, E. Carole McClanahan; one son, Richard D. Pennington (Jennie); one stepdaughter, Virginia M. Hughes; and two stepsons, George T. McClanahan Jr. (Patsy), and Edwin F. McClanahan (Ramona); 16 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; and eight great-great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by one son, James R. "J.R" Pennington, and one stepdaughter, Marion M. Wade. Other survivors include three sisters: Edith M. Kendrick of Chatham; Sallie M. Austin of Homosassa, Fla.; and Lillie M. Ferrell of Ringgold. She was predeceased by one sister, Ora M. Scearce, and six brothers, including Edward, Harry, Irving Glenn, Elmo, James, and Roy Mayhew. McClanahan worked for Dan River Inc. for 35 years, retiring from Number 8A Dress, Riverside Mill in 1974. She was remembered for having a strong work ethic and great pride in any job well done. At home, Ella was an energetic caregiver. Her favorite hobbies included gardening and reading. She possessed a gentle wit and a saying for every occasion. She was a terrific cook and hostess in her home. Ella was a longtime member of the Danville First Church of the Brethren on Glen Oak Drive, where she was the oldest member of that congregation. She belonged to the Dan River Retirees' Club, and she served as treasurer of the Stokesland Avenue Flower Club before moving to Avondale Drive to make her home with her daughter. She always valued the friendships of fellow churchgoers and especially her neighbors in the Schoolfield community. During her long life, she treasured the close friendships of Alphia "Ted" Jankus, Estelle Brown, and Maude Cain. The family wishes to thank the staff of Hallmark Home Health Care, especially Barbara and Diana, for their kind, professional care during her times of infirmity. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the North Main Street Chapel of Wrenn- Yeatts Funeral Home. A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2009, with the Rev. Richard Berkley officiating. The committal and interment will follow at Highland Burial Park. At other times, the family will be at the residence, 443 Avondale Drive, Danville, VA 24541. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests that memorial contributions be made to the building fund of Danville First Church of the Brethren, 37 Glen Oak Drive, Danville, VA 24541 or to a favorite charity. Wrenn-Yeatts North Main Chapel is respectfully serving the McClanahan family.

Ella Mayhew Pennington McClanahan

April 30, 1912 - September 27, 2009