Hilda McLamb Penny

Hilda Gray McLamb Penny entered her heavenly home on June 7, 2026. She was preceded in death by her parents, Paschal D. “Pat” and Lois Peedin McLamb; her brother, William McLamb “Buddy”; and her former husband, Ransom Edward “R.E.” Penny, Jr.

Ms. Hilda grew up on the family farm, where she learned the values of hard work, perseverance, and faith from her parents. As a farmer’s daughter, she developed a strong work ethic that remained throughout her life.

She graduated from Wilson Mills High School in 1958 and continued her education at Hardbarger Business College in Raleigh. She later attended Durham Technical College and Wake Technical College to further her business education. Throughout her career, she worked in numerous administrative positions with both state and county agencies, including social services programs.

A lifelong believer in education and personal growth, Hilda continually sought opportunities to learn new skills. She attended Sherrills Academy of Hairstyling and earned her cosmetology license. She later obtained her real estate license through Wake Technical Community College, becoming a licensed real estate broker. She also served as a public notary and even completed welding courses, earning an education in welding.

Ms. Hilda was a pilar of her community and a faithful Christian woman. She was a devoted member of Faith Community Church and was known for her generous spirit, always extending a helping hand to those in need.

She was loved by all those that had the privilege of knowing her. Through her ministry, Poogie’s Corner, she faithfully sent monthly letters to family and friends, sharing community news, words of encouragement, and praises to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Ms. Hilda was the proud mother of two sons, Ransom Edwards Penny, III and David Patrick Penny. She often spoke with great pride about their accomplishments and the lives they built.

Ransom Edward Penny, III and his wife, Barbara Ann Penny, reside on the McLamb Farm and are both retired. David Patrick Penny and his wife, Tina Webster Penny, also reside on the McLamb Farm.

Ms. Hilda is also survived by her granddaughters who she dearly loved, Hannah Montalto Penny and her husband, Samuel, who live on the McLamb Farm; and Sarah Winnifred Penny of Hickory; a great-granddaughter, Samantha Penny; step-grandchildren, Michael Cushing, Charity Locklear, Stacy Wood and Brandy Johnson; 5 step-great-grandchildren and 8 step great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her two sisters, Nellie Sanders and Faye Wells, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Ms. Hilda lived a full and meaningful life. She was at peace and ready to return to her heavenly home. Her faith, kindness, generosity, and dedication to her family, church, and community will be remembered by all who were blessed to know her and experience her ministry.

Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of faith, service, and love will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Hilda’s name may be made to SECU Hospice House, 426 Hospital Rd., Smithfield, NC 27577.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. prior to the funeral service. The funeral service will follow in the chapel of McLaurin Funeral Home at 11:00 a.m., followed by the interment at Pinecrest Memorial Park, Clayton, NC.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mclaurinatpinecrest.com for the Penny family. Arrangements are with McLaurin Funeral Home, Clayton.