In the quiet town of Washington CH, an immeasurable loss reverberates through the community, as Travis Dean Penwell, age 47, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, at his home. With his mother, Carmen Eva Penwell, by his bedside, Travis embarked on a journey to his Heavenly Home, reuniting with loved ones who awaited his arrival in joyous reunion. Born on November 15, 1976, in Fayette County, Travis was the only child of Freddie, Jr., and Carmen Eva (Bradshaw) Penwell. From the outset, Travis brought immeasurable joy to his parents and would grow to be a source of laughter, humor, and warmth for everyone who crossed his path.
A graduate of Washington High School in 1995, Travis lived his entire life in the Washington CH area. His love for travel led him to vacation destinations like Graceland, the cherished home of Elvis Presley, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and the enchanting Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Travis reveled in the magic of these places, creating memories that would endure.
Travis possessed an innate passion for music that reverberated throughout his life. His love for singing, coupled with a keen sense of humor, made him a delightful presence. Whether he was strumming his guitar, playing his drum set, conga drums, and bongo drums, or singing along to the tunes that filled his home, Travis’s musical spirit was infectious. Elvis Presley, his favorite musician, held a special place in his heart, but his appreciation for country music and R&B reflected the diversity of his musical palette.
Beyond his love for music, Travis actively participated in the Fayette County Special Olympics for fifteen years. Engaging in the Bowling Program, he formed lasting friendships that added a sense of camaraderie to his life. His enthusiasm for life extended to the celebration of holidays, with his birthday standing out as an annual highlight. Even as his health declined, Travis eagerly anticipated the joyous festivities surrounding his birthday, a testament to his enduring spirit.
Travis leaves behind a void that is immeasurable, survived by his devoted mother, Carmen E. Penwell, who provided unwavering love and support. In mourning his departure, his aunts and uncles, Sylvia Bradshaw, Don and Diane Bradshaw, Gene and Tena Bradshaw, Jeff and Barbara Schiller, and Jenny and Steven Penwell, share in the collective grief. Additionally, Travis is fondly remembered by numerous cousins and a vast network of friends, all of whom were touched by his infectious spirit.
Expressions of gratitude are extended to Dr. Marta Gryniuk, MD, the Adena Fayette Medical Center, and ProMedica Hospice for their compassionate care during Travis’s final days. A heartfelt acknowledgment goes to his aunt, Sylvia Bradshaw, and his special nurse, Brenda Eggleton, whose love and devotion provided solace to both Travis and his mother. The funeral service honoring Travis’s life will take place on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. at The Judy Memorial Chapel at Washington Cemetery.
Chaplain DeVon Davis will officiate the service, with burial following at the Washington Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at The Judy Memorial Chapel on Saturday morning from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. As the community gathers to bid farewell to Travis Dean Penwell, the memory of his laughter, musical spirit, and indomitable joy will linger, a cherished testament to a life well-lived and a soul dearly missed.
