Mrs. Lucy Graye Penny Washington, 90, of Smithfield, NC, peacefully departed this life at her home on Saturday, May 23, 2026.

Born on August 24, 1935, to the late Lucille and Jesse Penny, Lucy was raised in Smithfield, North Carolina, where she attended Johnston County Training School. Following her graduation, she moved to New York, where she pursued studies in computer data entry and established a career in the fashion district as a skilled leather handbag maker and talented seamstress.

After spending 30 years in New York, Lucy returned to her beloved hometown of Smithfield. Once home, she remained deeply engaged in her church and community. Known for her dedication and advocacy, Lucy worked tirelessly to promote positive change and faithfully served numerous organizations until her health no longer permitted.

Lucy was preceded in death by her parents, Lucille and Jesse Penny; her children, Felicia Washington and Freddie Washington, Jr.; and her siblings, Dorothy Penny, Leon Penny, Frank Penny, Louise Penny Sewell, Florene Penny Williams, and Irene Penny Dublin.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory two daughters,  Aisha Shahid and Dianne Washington; two sons, Curtis Hill, Jr. and Rodney Washington; 11 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends.

Lucy’s life was marked by hard work, service, compassion, and commitment to her family and community. Her legacy of strength and dedication will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Funeral Arrangements: Viewing Wed June 3, 2026, at Mitchener Memorial MBC 911 Blount St Smithfield, NC from 11:00 am until 12:00 noon. Funeral Services will begin at 12:00 noon.

Click On The Add Comments Line Below to leave a message for the family of Lucy Penny Washington.

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Family or Deceased Name: Mrs Lucy Washington
Your Name: Councilwoman Doris Wallace
Email: wallacedoris105@gmail.com
Message: I am deeply saddened by the passing of Mrs Lucy Washington, she guided me with such love,grace,and patience, helping me find my place in the community. I thank God for the gift of her life and light she poured into me. I will carry her spirit and wisdom in my heart always. May her soul rest in God.'s perfect peace.
Date: 05,31,2026

Family or Deceased Name: Mrs. Lucy Penny Williams
Your Name: Iris Massey
Email: irismassey912@gmail.com
Message: Condolences to your and your family, to our Penny Family during a lost of a love you.
Date: 9192736952

Family or Deceased Name: Lucy Penny Washington
Your Name: Gloria O’Neal
Email: gloriasherelloneal@icloud.com
Message: Although I never met Mrs. Lucy, I came to know this phenomenal woman in the past 3 years through her niece Tracy Joyner. I shall miss asking Tracy about her Aunt Lucy. God Blessed her with 90 years on this earth & with Eternal Life in Heaven. Thank you Tracy for indirectly introducing me to “Aunt Lucy.” My prayers are with all of her family.
Date: 05302026

Family or Deceased Name: Lucy Penny Washington
Your Name: Mala'ika
Email: mlaika.a1@outlook.com
Message: Fare thee well, Grandma. I hope you are at peace and surrounded by all who were eagerly waiting to see you again. 
Date: 5.27.26