Mrs. Penny Ann VanNortwick

At the age of 79, Penny Ann VanNortwick went home peacefully to Jesus on November 27, 2023, with her loved ones by her side. Penny was born on March 20, 1944, in Hamilton, Ohio. Her parents were James and Jean Bradley, but Penny was reared mainly by her grandmother, Sally Alexander. At a young age, Penny was drawn to the Christian faith. She began to attend Lindenwald Baptist Church where her future father-in-law, Ralph VanNortwick, was the pastor. She was led to salvation in Christ by the pastor’s wife, Lucille VanNortwick. Penny later met Ralph and Lucille’s son, Paul VanNortwick, who was the love of her life. Penny and Paul were high school sweethearts. After graduation from Garfield High School, Paul and Penny married on December 20, 1963. They raised four children together and provided a home to many foster children. They shared a strong Christian faith and love for the local church. Penny enjoyed singing hymns of the faith. She and Paul were members of several church choirs and frequently sang duets together. In 1986, Penny and Paul permanently relocated their family from Ohio to Woodstock, Georgia. They joined Midway Presbyterian Church where Penny served as a youth Sunday School teacher and started the church’s Pioneer Club program for children. Penny helped Paul found the company Venture Commodities, Inc., where she worked in the office until she retired. Penny and Paul spent their last years together at their home in Bear Paw, North Carolina where they both enjoyed long walks in the mountains and taking care of their many beloved feline friends. Penny was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She made it a priority to be present for her children and grandchildren’s special events. Penny held a special place in her heart for children and was dedicated to helping many children’s ministries during her lifetime. Penny was vivacious and outgoing. She was interested in politics. Penny had strong opinions about most things which she did not hesitate to share. She loved old black and white movies and chocolate. Her cinnamon rolls were legendary. Most of all, however, Penny was a devoted follower of Christ and desired to make Him known. Penny led many friends and neighbors to the Lord during her life. Penny was preceded in death by her mother, Jean Bradley, stepfather, James Bradley, and father, Clarence Parker. She will be lovingly remembered by her husband, Paul; son, Daniel VanNortwick; daughters Leslie Winn, Sally Braaksma (Chris), and Rachel Barlotta (Kevin); her grandchildren Andrew VanNortwick, Savannah Winn, Madison Gusmano (Andrew), Pierce Braaksma, Grant Braaksma (Heidi), Ann Bradley Barlotta, Alex Barlotta, and Almina Barlotta; her brothers James Bradley, Pat Bradley, and Phil Bradley and numerous nieces, nephews, and close friends. Family and friends are invited to visitation at Midway Presbyterian Church, 4635 Dallas Highway, Powder Springs, Georgia, on December 7, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. with the memorial service to follow at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Penny’s honor to her favorite Christian ministry for children, Palmer Home for Children at palmerhome.org.

Mrs. Penny Ann VanNortwick

March 20, 1944 - November 27, 2023