Retha Ellan Pennington

Retha Ellan Pennington, 94, of Mansfield, Arkansas, passed into the arms of the Lord on June 1, 2026, at her home surrounded by loved ones. She was born in Abbott, Arkansas on December 19, 1931, to Jessie and Laureen (Slate) Williams.

Retha was a loving and hardworking woman. Family was first and foremost in her life. She loved kids and caring for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was the joy of her life. She was the matriarch of her family, the glue that held them all together. A reverend’s wife for many years, Retha was actively involved in the Abbott Baptist Church, of which she was a member. She was an integral part of the women’s ministry there, often cooking meals for those enduring trying times. Along with her husband Elton, Retha helped to renovate the Abbott Schoolhouse, where they met each other as children.

Retha is survived by her son, Calton Britt Pennington and wife Jana, her grandsons James Pennington and wife Megen, Austin Pennington, and Greg Robinson and wife Julie, great-grandchildren, Ryder Pennington, Emma Pennington, Raeha Pennington, Chaz Robinson and wife Bonnie, Cort Robinson and wife Audrey, Jacy Robinson, and Cian Robinson.

She is preceded in death by her husband, J. Elton Pennington, her daughter Brenda Harris, and her parents Jessie and Laureen Williams.

Family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Martin Funeral & Cremation Chapel in Mansfield, Arkansas. A service for Retha will be held on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 10 a.m. at the Abbott Baptist Church in Mansfield, Arkansas with Rev. Bobby Clark officiating. Interment will follow at Pleasant Grove #2.

Arrangements are under the direction of Martin Funeral & Cremation – Mansfield.