James Bradly Pennington (1976-2022) Obituary and Memorial

Life story

James Bradly ‘Brad’ Pennington was born on May 8, 1976, to Kala and Jim Pennington and big sister, Kim, of Norman, OK. He was a bright and beautiful curly redheaded boy who loved his family, OU Football, and his children. He was christened and baptized in the United Methodist Church and was active in his church youth groups growing up. We remember Brad as an inquisitive and curious child who took care of his ivy plant named Charlie for years. He loved the family pets beyond measure and took special care of our elderly and sick pets in his apartment and was always taking in stray animals and cats to care for. He was wacky and funny and always entertaining.

Brad had a love of history and justice and was a keen follower of political issues, always advocating for those who were marginalized and forgotten in this world. Even as Brad struggled with his own personal problems, he maintained his interest in social justice and always encouraged others to fight for justice.

But more than anything else, Brad loved his kids, Kristana and Riley. They were the apple of his eye and the time he spent with them were the best times of his life. Having great times at Andy Alligators, going to the movies, playing video games for hours and hours and daydreaming about a trip to Disneyland were so important to him and this is when he was at his happiest.

We know Brad struggled to find his path in this world but he fought hard for his kids and family. We hope his spirit is at rest now and our family takes comfort in knowing his struggles are at an end and that he is being taken care of by his family in Heaven.

Brad is survived by his children, Riley and Kristana Pennington of Norman; his parents, Jim and Kala Pennington; his sister, Kim Pennington and brother-in-law Mike Jenkins; and nephews, Guthrie and Buddy Jenkins, all of Norman; in addition to many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins.

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