Jo Ellen Penn

Jo Ellen Penn, a devoted and faithful member of the Bridge City United Pentecostal Church, passed away on May 9, 2026, in Beaumont, Texas. Born on May 29, 1949, in Port Arthur, Texas, Jo Ellen’s life was marked by her unwavering faith, dedication to family, and graceful spirit.

Jo Ellen, as she was lovingly known, cherished her spiritual journey, celebrating over 65 years since receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, a moment of profound significance evidenced by her speaking in tongues. This blessing was the cornerstone of her life and the inspiration for her steadfast commitment to her church community.

She devoted two and a half years of her career as a secretary for Gulf Oil, bringing diligence and grace to her professional endeavors. Beyond her work, Jo Ellen was a talented cook and baker who found joy in culinary arts, alongside a passion for traveling, which enriched her appreciation for life’s many blessings.

Surviving Jo Ellen is her beloved husband of 52 years, Larry Ray Penn, who stood by her side through all seasons. She also leaves behind two cherished daughters, Erin Marie Betar and her husband, Michael of Nederland, and Molly Elaine Homuth and her husband Paul, also of Nederland. Her loving granddaughter, Abigail Lewing and her husband John, carry forward her legacy. Family was central to Jo Ellen’s life, a truth reflected in the presence of her sisters, Charlotte Perritt, Joni Hover and her husband Robert, Michelle Newton, and Annette Tweedel and her brother, Charlie Tweedel, and his wife Melissa. Additionally, a host of devoted nieces and nephews hold fond memories of her kindness and love.

Jo Ellen was preceded in death by her dear parents, George Robert Long, Jr. and Kathleen Placette Long Tweedel; her sister, Lisa Dianne Woodruff; and her grandparents, George “Paw” Robert Long, Sr., and Joe “Nanny” Moore Long, whose legacies she honored throughout her life.

Her life will be commemorated with a visitation followed by a funeral service at Bridge City United Pentecostal Church, located at 2056 W Roundbunch Rd, Orange, Texas, on May 13, 2026. The visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Homecoming Celebration at 12:00 noon, allowing friends and family to celebrate a life well-lived and a spirit deeply cherished. A graveside service for Jo Ellen will be held at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Groves, Texas.

Jo Ellen Penn’s enduring faith, her warm heart, and her nurturing soul leave an indelible mark on all who knew her. She lived a life dedicated to her Lord, her family, and her community, and she will be remembered with great love and reverence. May her memory remain a blessing to all who were privileged to know her.