Penny Shewmaker

The Excelsior Standard, July 12, 2024

enny Lee Shewmaker (Miller), 72, of Elk Grove, Calif., went home to be with the Lord while surrounded by family on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, after a lengthy battle with cancer. Penny was born Oct. 3, 1951, in St. Joseph. In 1973, she graduated from Missouri Western with a bachelor’s degree in education. While attending college, Penny worked at the Noyes Home for Children, providing care for the children in residence. This was the beginning of a lifetime commitment to serving at-risk children.

After college, Penny assisted in the management and operations of several family businesses in Excelsior Springs.

She was a lifelong Christian who demonstrated her love of the church by serving as treasurer, and on leadership councils and boards; teaching Sunday School; working with youth groups; providing member care to shut-ins and the elderly; and many other acts of service.

Penny met Stan Shewmaker during a family visit to Southern California; and the two were wed Aug. 12, 1973, in St. Joseph. Penny and Stan went on to have four children before moving in August 1987 to Elk Grove. While in Elk Grove, she was a dedicated homemaker.

In 1989, Penny and Stan began fostering infants and young children. For more than 25 years, Penny provided care, love and attention to more than 30 foster children. During that time, she and Stan adopted their three youngest children, making them parents to seven.

Penny’s gift for hospitality made her a beloved hostess who always had an open door and a plate of food ready for anyone who paid an expected or unexpected visit. She showed her love for her family, friends and guests through a smile, a story and a warm welcome.

Penny was preceded in death by her parents, Orin T. Miller and Doris Evelyn Miller; brother, Eugene L. Miller; and son, Jeremy.

She is survived by her husband, Stan; children, Jennifer (Brian) Dangott, Matt Shewmaker, Nick (Rachel) Shewmaker, Alex (Jenna) Shewmaker, Rose Shewmaker and Ashton Shewmaker; grandchildren, Dominick, Simon, Brooklyn, Ava, Evelyn, Emma and Layla; and brother Terry Miller.

A small memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, July 12, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Elk Grove.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the Noyes Home for Children in St. Joseph. Phone: 816-232-5650.