Fallen Hero: CMSgt James “Jim” Sidney Pennington (Ret)

Raymond, MS

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Funeral Home

Chancellor Funeral Home

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Obituary

Recognizing and Honoring a Fallen Hero, Who Served Within the Mississippi National Guard. “Fallen, Yet Not Forgotten”

In recognition of our proud American tradition of honorable service which our military men and women have given to their country and our State, we honor a Fallen Hero. Our nation, our state, and the National Guard Association of MS (NGAMS) regard the memorializing of its retired military deceased as an honorable and sacred obligation.

Another great Airman and Fallen Hero has been released from duty, passed from our ranks on August 7, 2023, and has moved on to his heavenly home.  SMSgt James Sidney “Jim” Pennington (SRet), age 84, who served in the MSANG and served within the 172d Airlift Wing has departed and gone to a better place with our good Lord.

It takes a special person to serve within the military for their country, giving up their family time, comfort, and safety for their country, ultimately for all Americans to enjoy their freedoms, safety, and way of life. We now applaud you for your service to our country.  A special message from General Douglas McArthur remains applicable today for our servicemen that have passed: “Old Soldiers never die; they just fade away”.

Rest in Peace Airman.  We applaud your patriotism and brave efforts in serving our country and your family for their support of your service. We thank you for your service. Without your efforts and your families’ support, our country would not stand so boldly, shine so bright and live so free.

You now have earned a rest, so go fly with the Angels, go rest high on that mountain; your work on earth is done. Go to heaven a-shoutin’ Love for the Father and the Son.

Another great Airman has gone home, “Fallen, Yet Not Forgotten, Airman for Life”.

Obituary, Visitation, and Service details:

https://www.chancellorfuneralhome.com/obituaries

James Sidney “Jim” Pennington, beloved husband, father, grandaddy, and dedicated public servant, passed away peacefully at his home in Raymond on August 7, 2023. James, lovingly known as Jim by friends and family, lived a remarkable life filled with bravery, compassion, and unwavering commitment to his community.

Born on August 25, 1938, to Leon and Gladys Pennington, Jim grew up surrounded by love and support. From a young age, it was evident that he possessed a strong sense of duty and an unyielding desire to make a positive impact on the world around him.

Jim’s professional journey led him to become an integral part of the firefighting community. He dedicated years of his life to serving the people of Jackson as Captain of the Jackson Fire Department. After retiring from the fire department in 1981, his passion continued with his career with the Department of Corrections Fire and Safety where he continued to protect and care for others until his retirement in 1997.

Aside from his commendable contributions to firefighting, Jim’s commitment extended beyond civilian life. An outstanding patriot, he served his country with distinction in the United States Air National Guard for an astounding 38 years and served honorably in Vietnam and “Operation Desert Storm”. Rising through the ranks with unparalleled dedication and discipline, Jim retired as a Loadmaster with the rank of SMSGT/Chief Master Sergeant in the Air Force. It is worth mentioning that his military career also included time in service with the United States Navy.

While Jim may have invested countless hours into his career, he always prioritized his family above all else. He leaves behind a cherished legacy through the children he was blessed enough to share with his wife, Jayne Pennington: Michelle Sims (Darryl), Alan Polk (Laura), and Jason Polk (Lexi). His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were truly blessed to have Jim in their lives. He leaves behind many nieces and nephews as well.

In honor of Jim’s memory, a Graveside service will be held on Thursday, August 10th at 10am at Lakewood Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the First Baptist Church of Raymond.