John Penley
John Venson Penley, born on October 5, 1962, in Buncombe County, NC, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2025. He was a dedicated public servant, having started his illustrious career as the youngest member of the City of Asheville Fire Department in 1980, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, who inspired his early volunteer efforts with the Town of Weaverville Fire Department. John proudly became the first career-paid Fire Chief of the Town of Weaverville, making him a third-generation Fire Chief, a testament to his family's longstanding commitment to serving the community.
John's career extended beyond firefighting; he devoted many years to law enforcement with the Buncombe County Sheriff's Department until his retirement. His passion for public service led him to serve as Interim Town Manager and Interim Public Works Director in Weaverville, as well as a dedicated member of the Weaverville Town Council, where he held the position of Vice-Mayor for 18 years. John and Jamie were members of Biltmore Baptist Church.
A strong Christian man of deep faith and conviction, John was a devoted husband to his loving wife of 25 years, Jamie Vetas Penley, and a loving father to his daughter, Jordan Penley Read, and her husband, Lewis. He cherished the time spent with his family, including his granddogs, Freddie and Tucker. John is also survived by his brother, Dennis Penley, and his wife, Phoebe; his nephews, Adam Penley (Tiffany), Alex Penley (Kelly), and Austin Penley (Elizabeth); his sister-in-law, Heidi Flood (Mackie); his brother-in-law, Chuck Vetas (Melissa); his mother-in-law, Carolyn Vetas; and numerous nieces and nephews, including Lane Penley, Gracie Vetas (Nick), James Penley, Brayden Penley, John Penley, Emily Penley, Lincoln Penley, Addie Mae Penley, and Bo Penley. John also leaves behind many friends and extended family members who were touched by his kindness and generosity.
John lived life to the fullest, embracing his hobbies and interests. He found great joy in the beach, boating, fishing, tending to flowers, watching sports, and supporting his nephews and nieces in their various activities. An avid fan of the Clemson Tigers, he also shared countless memorable moments with his cocker spaniel buddy, Dabo, cheering for their team together.
John Penley was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Jim and Libby Penley; his grandparents, Gene and Ruby Brigman Penley; and his father-in-law, Charles Vetas. His legacy of service and love for family will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.
Jamie would like to extend her gratitude to the Mission Intervention Radiology Department and the Atrium Health Liver Transplant Team for their astounding level of care and compassion for John during the past two years.
A funeral service honoring John’s life will take place on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Trinity Baptist Church, 216 Shelburne Rd, Asheville, NC 28806 with Reverend's Winston Parrish and Allen Rash officiating. Burial will follow in West Memorial Park.The family will receive friends Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at West Funeral Home located at 17 Merrimon Ave, Weaverville, NC 28787.
Joint honors will be provided by the Buncombe County Firefighter Honor Guard, Asheville Fire Department, Buncombe County Sheriff’s Department and Weaverville Fire Department.
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