Penny Burrell Stanberry

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Bringing joy to her family was one of the ways she expressed her love most deeply.

Penny Burrell Stanberry, 60, passed away on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at Orchard Valley Health & Rehabilitation in Hendersonville, North Carolina.

Born on May 7, 1966, in Greenville, South Carolina, and a lifelong resident of Asheville, Penny was the daughter of Jeanette Marlene Merrill Burrell and the late Jimmy Edward Burrell. She graduated from Enka High School with the Class of 1984 and carried through life a caring spirit that was evident in the many lives she touched.

For many years, Penny worked as a teacher in early education at Bent Creek Baptist Church. She loved her students, and that love was reflected in the patience, warmth, and kindness she shared each day. Her nurturing nature also showed in the simple joys that filled her life. She enjoyed sewing and had recently taken up coloring. She loved spending time with her granddaughter, and she was especially known for giving thoughtful gifts. Bringing joy to her family was one of the ways she expressed her love most deeply.

Penny was preceded in death by her father, Jimmy Edward Burrell, and by her husband, Jeffrey Scott Stanberry. Penny and Jeffrey were high school sweethearts, and his death on March 18, 1996, was a loss she carried with enduring love.

She is survived by her sons: Jeffrey Brian Stanberry and his wife Jamie, and Noah Scott Stanberry; by her mother, Jeanette Marlene Merrill Burrell; by her sisters: Lorrie Hutson and her husband Art, and Mary Payne and her husband Joseph; by her grandchildren, Josh Smith and Jessica Stanberry. Her family circle also includes her nieces and nephew: Ellen and her husband Nathan, and their children, Alex and Jack; Catie; Megan and her husband Tyler, and their children, Kara, Teddy, and Julian; MacKenzie and her husband Cam; Emma; and Andrew. She will be remembered with love by all of them, and by the many family members and friends whose lives were brightened by her thoughtfulness and care.

No services are planned, however those who wish to visit with Penny's family are welcome to visit with them at the home of Mary Payne.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Penny's memory to Elves For Enka, Enka High School, 475 Enka Lake Road, Candler, NC 28715.

Penny’s life was marked by devotion to children, love for family, and a generous heart that found happiness in making others smile. Her memory will remain a blessing to those who knew and loved her.

Anders Rice & Roper Funeral Home and Cremation Center is honored to serve Penny's family.