Bruce Penrod

Bruce Wayne Penrod, 64, of Jackson passed away Saturday, Dec. 15, 2018, at Saint Louis University Hospital in St. Louis, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born April 20, 1954, in Cape Girardeau, son of Clinton "Junior" and Kathryn M. Craft Penrod. He and Becky L. Besher were married July 5, 1975. She survives.

Bruce attended New Bethel Baptist Church near Pocahontas. He was the owner and operator of Penrod's Repair for more than 30 years. Bruce worked hard to take care of his family and anyone else who needed help. He had a rough exterior, but was truly a big softie with an even bigger heart. He loved April and Robert with all his heart and was very proud of them. His grandchildren touched him in ways he never expected, and he loved them more than he ever imagined.

Bruce enjoyed rebuilding Mustangs and going on Sunday afternoon cruises with his family and friends. He had a passion for model trains and an incredible talent for being able to fix anything. He enjoyed mentoring those who wanted to learn. Many say "he met no stranger and he was a friend you could always count on no matter what time of day or night; if you needed him, he was there." He left an impression on many hearts and will be missed for years to come.

Loving survivors include his devoted and loving wife of 43 years; a daughter, April (Glenndon) Kennedy of Jackson; a son, Robert (Janet Fellows) Penrod of Cape Girardeau; two granddaughters, Hannah Lawless and Abigail Kennedy of Jackson; a stepgranddaughter, Elizabeth Kennedy of Jackson; Mason Easley of Cape Girardeau, whom Bruce thought of as his grandson; three sisters, Brenda (Mike) Nagel, Bonnie Farrow and Barb Penrod, all of Jackson; three aunts, Maxine (the late Alvin) Schenimann and Delores (Lyman) King of Jackson and Judy (the late Johnny) Ward of Millersville; many nieces and nephews; and countless friends.

Bruce Penrod

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Robert C. Penrod.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday at McCombs Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Jackson.

Funeral will be at 10 a.m. Friday at the funeral home, with the Rev. Jacob Colwell officiating. Interment will follow in Russell Heights Cemetery in Jackson. To honor Bruce's love and passion for classic cars, the family is encouraging Bruce's family and friends to drive their classic cars in the procession to the cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to New Bethel Youth Mission Fund or to Jackson Elks.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.mccombsfuneralhome.com.