John Newton Penberthy

August 30, 1942 - March 12, 2017
John Newton Penberthy

Memorial Gifts & Donations




John Newton Penberthy age 74, of Wilmington, NC, passed away at his home surrounded by his family on Sunday, March 12, 2017. He was born in Punxsutawney PA on August 30, 1942 to the late John Newton Penberthy and Ella Mae (Emhoff) Penberthy.

John served his country in the US Navy. He was the owner of Penberthy Refrigeration Company for over 40 years. After retirement, he was an active member of the American Legion, Elks Club, Moose Lodge and VFW.

John was preceded in death by his son, Brian Wade Penberthy.

John is survived by his wife of 52 years Nannette (Brogdon) Penberthy. In addition to Nannette, John is survived by his children: Dean Penberthy of Laichingen, Germany, Yvonne Fizer of Burgaw, NC, Christopher Penberthy of San Antonio, TX, Paul Penberthy of Wilmington, NC, and Sue Briggs of Hagerstown, MD; 18 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; brothers: Jim Helm and Gene Penberthy and sister Donna Mroczkowski. He will be greatly missed.

The family will hold a private memorial service. In lieu of flowers, they have requested donations be made in John’s honor to Lower Cape Fear Hospice or a charity of your choice.

Please share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Post a Condolence” tab below.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 1535 S. 41st Street Wilmington, NC 28403 910.791.9099


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  • April 27, 2023
    Andrew Penberthy says:
    miss everyone. Think about you GP…

  • April 27, 2023
    Andrew Penberthy lit a candle:
    Lit since April 27, 2023 at 4:14:36 PM

  • March 14, 2017
    monty hobbs lit a candle:
    Lit since March 14, 2017 at 3:04:45 PM

  • March 16, 2017
    Pamela Kimmel says:
    Nannette, I'm so sorry to hear about John. He was liked and loved by many. If there is anything I can do, or if you just want to talk, I still live on Robert E. Lee Dr. Please stop in or call me. Pam

  • March 17, 2017
    Jean E. Hollarn lit a candle:
    Lit since March 17, 2017 at 3:07:15 AM