In Memory

Jill Stott (Pennington)

Jill Stott (Pennington)

Jill Stott Pennington died peacefully on February 13, 2017 in Louisville, Kentucky at the age of 72. She is the mother of Amy Pennington of St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin; Jennifer Pennington of Louisville, Kentucky; and grandmother to Halden, Azalea, and Sidrah Edwards. She also leaves other family and many close friends.

Jill grew up in Oak Park, Illinois with father Jack Stott and mother Betty Boyles Stott and graduated from Oak Park and River Forest High School in 1962. Education was important to Jill and, taking a non-traditional route, she received an Associate Degree from Lansing Community College in her 30s and got her Bachelors from New College of California at age 50.  

Jill courageously followed her passions and interests. Music was a driving force in Jill’s life – she played piano and sang with friends, family, and as part of rock and roll bands whenever she could. 

Jill’s career was interesting and varied, ranging from government to animal welfare.  While raising her daughters in East Lansing, Michigan, she began to engage in politics. She worked for both Congressman Bob Carr and Governor James Blanchard of Michigan. She later relocated to San Francisco and was employed by the City Attorney’s Office as an Investigator and then as part of the Administrative Services team.  Eventually her love of animals prompted more career moves as she became the Executive Director of a Humane Society in Michigan and then ultimately Jill found employment at The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee – fulfilling a longtime dream. For the last few years Jill resided in Louisville, Kentucky where she enjoyed walking her beloved dog, Ellie, and took many continuing education classes at Bellarmine University. Jill will be remembered for her wit, ability to give the perfect gift, and her loving heart.

A Celebration of Life will take place in Lansing, Michigan later in the spring.  In lieu of flowers, please send donations to organizations that foster Jill’s strong-held belief in supporting causes that benefit women and girls, animal welfare, and social justice such as Planned Parenthood, The Elephant Sanctuary, and the ACLU.  

 



 
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02/13/17 08:07 PM #1    

Priscilla Serblin (Gilmore)

I am so sorry to hear about Jill's death.  She was a lovely person.  I am glad that I had a chance to see her again at the Whittier School Reunion a few years back.  She was the same gregarious, loving soul.  I also recall that when I moved to Oak Park in 1958 (sixth grade at Whittier), it was Jill who introduced me to everyone at recess.  She made me feel very welcome.  That stayed with me because it was a hard age to transfer.  She was special. Rest in peace Jill.

Priscilla Serblin Gilmore


02/13/17 08:09 PM #2    

Priscilla Serblin (Gilmore)

Correction from Priscilla, it was 1956 that we were all in 6th grade, not 1958.

 


02/13/17 09:20 PM #3    

Margaret Fleck (DeBock)

Jill's life ended much too soon. We went to grade and high school together and

were in touch regularly since 2011. She was a good person.

 


02/14/17 08:57 AM #4    

Marlene Blumenthal (Mann)

Jill was such a lovely person and always smiling and friendly.  She seemed to live a very rich life, which ended much to soon.


02/14/17 01:14 PM #5    

Patty Kennett (Black)

My dear good friend. We kept in contact and visits since high school.  Gone way too soon. You will always have a place in my heart my friend. Miss you and love you.  xo

 


02/14/17 07:55 PM #6    

Penny Besinger (Hendricks)

I'm so very saddened by Jill's passing,  it just doesn't seem possible. She was a dear friend and will be truly missed by me, her family, and all of her many friends. She brought a quick wit, warmth, and generous spirit to the table. You and your family will be in my prayers. Love you, Jill❤️

 

 


02/15/17 11:46 AM #7    

Nancy Tobias (Hylbert)

Memories of Jill in grade school included great envy of her "DA" haircut. I wanted so badly to have one too, but my mother wouldn't let me. I thought Jill was the luckiest girl in school. She was pretty and kind and fun to be with. 


02/16/17 07:47 AM #8    

Virginia "Kaye" Yueill (Hatch)

I remember Jill from grade school and going to her grandparents summer home in Saugatuck, MI.  She was always kind and energetic.  This past year must have been very frustrating for her.  RIP dear Jill


02/22/17 11:37 AM #9    

Carol Davidson (Price)

My best to Jill's family.Our loved one's will always stay in our hearts.Carol Davidson Price


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