Robert Penn

Robert Lee Penn, Sr. was born on October 23, 1941, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to the late Garner Mae Smith-Penn and Hubert Penn, Sr. He was the fourth of twelve children and was raised in a loving family whose guidance and influence helped shape the man he became. Robert received his education through the Chattanooga Public School System. Throughout his life, he held several positions, but he spent most of his career at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and Koch Foods, where he dedicated more than 20 years of faithful service before retiring. Outside of work, Robert enjoyed fishing and appreciated the simple pleasures of life. He was known for his wonderful sense of humor and his ability to make those around him laugh. He was also admired for the wisdom he shared and, perhaps most notably, for his unmistakable dapper style. His laughter, wisdom, personality, and loving spirit made him truly special to everyone who knew and loved him. On Friday, August 21, 2026, Robert Lee Penn, Sr. peacefully departed this earthly life and entered his eternal home in Heaven, surrounded by his devoted family. Robert was preceded in death by his grandmother Iona Smith; brothers, Hubert Penn, Jr., Percy Penn, and Rev. Lawrence Penn; sisters, Ruth Penn Leeth and Louise Penn Hemphill; grandsons, Rayshann Underwood, Jr. and Edrick Penn; mother-in-law, Eddie Mae Dupree; and father-in-law, William Dupree. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 45 years, Virginia Penn. Robert is survived by his sons, Gordon Penn, Robert (Jalesa) Penn, Jr., Willie (Tempestt) Penn, Eric Penn, Sr. (Tonice H.), and Rayshann Underwood; daughters, Taras (Gerald P.) Dupree, Torial (Bryant Sr.) Young, and Tawanna Dupree; and daughter-in-law, Mercedes Penn. Robert leaves to cherish his memory his 25 grandchildren: Gordon Penn, Jr., Tisha Penn, James Penn, Robert Penn, Quincy Penn, Latesse (Daniel) Crafter, Denise Penn, Robert Penn, III, Trevonte Penn, Adrian Penn, Jaylen Elder, Jayden Elder, Ni’Kiah Penn, Kada Penn, Eric Penn, Jr., Eriunna Penn, Tyree Penn, Latoya Penn, Leslie Penn, Alexander Watkins, Bryant Young, Jr., Brianna Young, Reyshondria Underwood, Milton Overton, and Chambria Overton. He also leaves to cherish his memory his 12 great-grandchildren: Jennifer Penn, Journey Holloway, Derrick Holloway, Naikiyon Hughley, Jaden Hughley, Cameron Crafter, Paris Crafter, Brylee Young, Bryant Young, III, Aria Taylor, Ja’Niyah Williams, and Jaden Williams. Robert is also survived by his sisters, Barbara Norwood and Linda Jarrett; brothers, Don (Mary) Penn, Larry (Clara) Penn, Eugene (Annie) Penn, and Willie Penn; sisters-in-law, Donna Holloway, Geraldine Dupree, and Zelle Penn; brother-in-law, Rickey Dupree, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory. Robert’s life was a testament to family, laughter, love, and the importance of bringing joy to those around him. Though he is no longer with us physically, the memories he created and the love he shared will live on in the hearts of his family and everyone blessed to have known him. Rest peacefully. Your work here is done, but your memory will live on forever. Special Thanks The family extends its heartfelt appreciation and special thanks to Gabbie, Dee, and Keisha of Hospice Care for the compassion, care, and support they provided to Robert and his family during this difficult time. Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever in our hearts. Robert will lie-in-state on Friday, September 4, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel.

Robert Penn

October 23, 1941 - August 21, 2026