Thomas F. Penney

thomas penney

January 7, 1935 ~ March 12, 2025

Born in: Springvale, Maine
Resided in: Shapleigh, Maine

Thomas Freeman Penney, 90, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2025, after a short stay at Gosnell Memorial Hospice House, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on January 7, 1935, in Springvale, Maine, to Thomas and Violet (Dunham) Penney, Tom was one of six children.  His father passed away when Tom was just 12 years old, and his mother later remarried Carl Eagle, who played an important role in Tom’s life.

In 1954, Tom married his beloved wife, Ferne Penney, and they shared an inseparable bond for over 60 years until her passing in 2018.  Tom proudly served in the Army, stationed in Germany, where he and Ferne welcomed their son, Thomas Penney, into the world.

Tom had a lifelong passion for antiques, particularly motorcycles, cars, and guns.  He began buying and selling antiques at a young age and developed a special talent for restoring old cars.  He was known as the go-to person for antique car parts, always having exactly what was needed to get a vehicle running again.  For many years, Tom also ran his own wrecker business and plowed roads for the town of Shapleigh.

One of Tom’s favorite pastimes was hunting, especially with his son and grandson.  He had a special hunting spot on the mountain where he would spend hours enjoying the outdoors.

Tom also loved attending antique car shows, especially in Carlisle and Hershey, where he could indulge in his passion for cars and connect with others who shared his enthusiasm.

Known for his kindness, strength, and generosity, Tom was a man who would always lend a helping hand.  His calm, steady presence will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Tom is survived by his sister, Maxine Flint of Lebanon; his son, Thomas R. Penney and his wife, Susan of Shapleigh; his grandchildren, Brad Penney and his wife Marisa of Shapleigh, and Tricia Penney of Waterboro; as well as his three great -grandchildren, Madison Penney, Mayson Penney and Bode Penney.

Friends and family are invited to a time of visitation on Tuesday, March 18, from 2:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. with a funeral service to follow at 4:00 PM at Black-Heald Walker Funeral Home, 580 Main Street, Springvale.

Tom will be greatly missed by all who knew him.  His love for his family, his passion for antiques and cars, and his generous spirit will leave a lasting legacy.  His memory will live on in the hearts of his loved ones.

Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider making a donation to Gosnell Memorial Hospice House, Scarborough, ME  04074.

 

 

 

 

 

Services

Visiting Hours: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 2:00 pm

Carll-Heald & Black Funeral Home
580 Main St.
Springvale, Maine


Funeral Service: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 4:00 pm

Carll-Heald & Black Funeral Home
580 Main St.
Springvale, Maine


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  1. Tom and family, may the darkness in your hearts get brighter every passing day in the memory of Big Tom. With all my love, your old friend Lori G

  2. So sorry to hear of this great loss. I remember going up to visit Tom with my dad 50 years ago. I always thought he was invincible because I just kept seeing him through the years out and about at car shows! He was a great man and raised a great son who has also raised a great son and daughter. And his legacy Carries On. my heart goes out to all of you! Love you Sue and Tom❤

  3. Tom,

    I only met you a few times. As I sit here, sad, I realize you made quite an impression. May you and your family have peace.

    Mike Lee

  4. Tom was right there whenever he was needed. I knew my Dad reached out when he was stumped. Ferne was always so kind and welcoming
    I called him when Dad had his heart attack when I was 15. I tried to plow the driveway – just a strip so Mom could get home from the hospital, and got the truck stuck. (1970 Chevy with bald tires & very little floor.)
    He & Fern were there so fast. He cleared the driveway and put the truck back.
    They were such good people – he was such a good man.

  5. Tom RIP my friend. I’m going to miss your friendship and old car knowledge. Having known you and Fern for most of my entire life has been Noreen an my pleasure. We enjoyed running The Monday Nighters and Father’s Day Car Show for many years at the Shapleigh Corner Store. What good times we brought to all that attended. Please keep an eye on all of us and help the old car hobby continue. Love Noreen an Carl

  6. Our hearts go out to all who knew “Grampa Tom”. He was so patient and caring for Edith. I already miss seeing his light on as we drive home. I’ll miss our long conversations and his sense of humor. The knowledge he would give by muttering a few words was impressive. May the memories of Tom and Fern give all a warmth that will shared forever. Lots of Love, Cheri, Jason, and Edith

  7. Tom, was an amazing man. Always kind and always compassionate… His sense of humor was to be appreciated. He was loyal to his friends and those who loved him and he them. He will forever be missed.

  8. Tom Tom & Sue. So so sorry to hear of your Dad, passing. He was a such a wonderful man. Both your Mom & Dad, such great customers of mine while working at Jerry’s Diner. May it bring comfort knowing they are together. My sincere condolences to your family. Sincerely, Rachel (Collette ) Burbank

  9. Tom and Sue, I am so sorry for your loss. Your Dad and Mom were amazing and many people who knew them will have stories to tell of cars and travels.
    Tom, you certainly were an icon. I will miss seeing you working on your vehicles and test driving them up and down the road. Rest in peace.

  10. Tom was quite the character. I met him at the monthly Amherst flea market meet back in the 70’s when it was just 1 row, with my now husband. I can’t remember any of the many times we went that we didn’t see Tom.it always amazed me at how far he’d drive his old autos to cruise nights. The same with Hershey, Bennington and Epping.
    Forrie and I bought matching antique firesticks from Tom many years ago. His wife was a doll.
    It won’t be the same without Tom at antique car meets.
    Tom you’ll be terribly missed.
    Rest Easy and say hi to all the ole car enthusiasts that have passed on.
    Forrie and Cheryl Towne
    Bridgewater NH

  11. My Dad gave me his treasured 1930 “Ahooga” horn. It stopped working one day. Everyone I asked to help fix it said “Go see Tom Penny.”
    Not only did he fix it but took time to show me how to repair it in the future. Still works.
    My condolences to all his family.


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