03/17/2026
Dr. Michaele Paulette Penn
Dr. Michaele Paulette Penn transitioned from this life on Thursday, March 12, 2026, in Houston, TX.
Dr. Michaele “Paulette” Penn (Mitchell) was born on March 10, 1943, in Bluefield, West Virginia, to the late Desmond Mitchell and Bertha Emma Mitchell Davis. She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband, Dr. Clarence P. Penn, Jr.
She leaves to cherish her memory her loving family: her sister, Jacqueline (Bruce) Houston; her son, Benjamin (Dy-Anne) Penn; her daughter, Michelle John (Walton); and her granddaughters, Erica Penn Mensah (Leo), Lauren Marshall, and Ivana Marshall. She is also survived by her brothers-in-law, Lewis Barrett Penn, William Frederick Penn, and George Ellery Penn, a special nephew, Michael Sims, and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Paulette’s early life was rooted in faith, music, and service. She was actively involved in the Methodist Youth Fellowship of the East Tennessee Conference, where she nurtured her love for music. A gifted pianist, she worked closely with youth at John Stewart Methodist Church in Bluefield, West Virginia, she continued to enjoy singing and playing the piano throughout her life. It was through the Methodist Youth Fellowship Summer Camp that she met her future husband, Clarence P. Penn, Jr. Their love blossomed through their years at Bluefield State College, and they were united in marriage and had a beautiful partnership that would span more than five decades.
Paulette was a proud graduate of Genoa Junior High School, Bluefield High School, and Bluefield State College. She went on to earn her master’s degree in biology from Radford University and her Doctor of Education from Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia—demonstrating her lifelong commitment to learning and excellence.
In 1968, Paulette and Clarence relocated to Virginia, where she began her distinguished career in education in Charlotte Courthouse, where she taught health and physical education followed by her teaching biology in Appomattox County Public Schools. Over the years, she taught at Smithfield High School in Smithfield, Virginia, served as principal of Charles City High School in Charles City, Virginia, John F. Kennedy Middle School in Suffolk, Virginia; and Queen’s Lake Middle School in Williamsburg, Virginia, from which she retired in 1998.
Throughout her career, Paulette made a profound and lasting impact on countless students. She was especially known for her passion for biology and her unwavering encouragement of students to pursue professional careers. Her influence extended beyond the classroom, shaping futures and inspiring generations.
In 1977, Paulette and Clarence made their home in Surry, Virginia, where she became a cherished pillar of the community. Their home was a place of warmth, hospitality, and joy. She was known for hosting beloved Christmas gatherings and fostering deep connections with neighbors and friends. She served as a proud member of the Bacon’s Castle Women’s Club and the Surry County Electoral Board.
A woman of many talents, Paulette was an avid reader, crossword puzzle enthusiast, gifted seamstress, crocheter, and exceptional cook. There was no craft she could not master. She created joyful, memorable experiences for her family and filled every space she entered with love and intention. While she often supported her husband’s public prominence, Paulette was a powerful and accomplished woman in her own right.
Dr. Michaele Paulette Penn will be remembered for her grace, intellect, creativity, and unwavering dedication to family, education, and community. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the students she inspired, and the family she so deeply loved.
She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Ruth Booth, Ms. Sarah Bauer, Dr. Hilda Williamson, Dr. Shevellanie Lott, Ms. Veronica Pierce, beloved goddaughter- Dr. Dana Covington (Brian), and cherished godsons Mr. Eddie Ray Carr (Kathy), Mr. Antonio Rawlings (Lyncheryl), and Darryl Rawlings, as well as Drs. Brian and Robbie Blackwell, for their unwavering love, kindness, and devoted care shown to Paulette.
At 2 pm on Saturday, March 21, 2026, A Celebration of Life will be held at Lebanon Baptist Church Spring Grove, VA. There will be NO PUBLIC VIEWING. Please keep the Penn family in your thoughts and prayers.
View Dr. Michaele Paulette Penn's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.
