Mary Vel Pennell, 70, of Cambridge, died Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022, at her home.

She was born January 12, 1952 in Wood River, Illinois, daughter of the late John Blaine and Frances E. (Fosha) Blaine.

The matriarch of the family, “Nana” was always there for reunions, sporting events, graduations and births.

She was a 1970 graduate of Beallsville High School and a member of the 1st Christian Church of Beallsville.

She enjoyed playing cards, especially euchre. She also enjoyed boating at Seneca Lake, camping at Spring Valley and vacationing at Myrtle Beach.

She is survived by her husband, Dale Pennell, whom she married Oct. 12, 1971; a daughter, Jennifer (Dave) Francis, of Cambridge; three grandchildren, Kayla (Brady) Armstrong, of Cambridge, Devon (Jennifer) Francis, of Cambridge, and Troy (Holly) Francis, of Marietta; and four great-grandchildren, Mady, Liam, Braxton and Duke.

Visitation was held Monday, Oct. 3, 2022, at Thorn-Black Funeral Home, Cambridge, where funeral services were held Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2022, with Dr. Brian Bee officiating.

Burial will be at Northwood Cemetery, Cambridge.

Personal condolences may be sent to the family at www.thorn-blackfuneralhomes. com.