Penny Hobson

Stephannie "Penny" Ann Hobson, born April 11, 1937, to Stanley Edward Wissen and L. Grace (Hamilton) Wissen, peacefully passed away on Saturday, July 13, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Stanley "Eddie" Edward Wissen II.  From a young age, Penny's life was marked by a nickname that became her identity. After a childhood mishap involving her swallowing pennies, her older brother Eddie dubbed her “Penny”, and she carried that playful spirit throughout her life.  As a young adult, Penny worked as a car hop at The Pole Drive-In on 16th Street, where she ultimately met her husband, Ralph. Their love story began with a memorable encounter when Ralph, a frequent customer, playfully tipped Penny by slipping a single dollar bill into a straw and handing it to her, insisting she not accidentally throw it away. This charming gesture marked the beginning of a relationship that led to their marriage in 1956, and on November 17, 2023, they celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary.  In addition to her zest for life, Penny had a deep passion for genealogy, dedicating over four decades to researching both her family history and that of her husband Ralph. This pursuit connected generations and has preserved cherished stories for future descendants. Much of her research and documentation has since been shared with the Genealogy Center in Ft. Wayne, IN, which houses one of the world’s largest physical genealogy collections.  As a mother to Kateri and Dawn, Penny instilled a love of adventure and learning in her daughters. She delighted in teaching them skills like sewing, fishing, drawing, painting, and crafting, creating cherished memories that they hold dear today. Penny's culinary talents were renowned, especially her Sunday meals and gatherings that brought extended family and friends together.  Penny is survived by her husband Ralph Hobson, her daughters Kateri Burnett (Hugh), Dawn Saffel (Bob); grandchildren Chris Burnett (Alicia), Brin Hamblin, and Sarah Deaton (Tyler); great-grandson Camden Burnett; niece Candra "Candy" Jacks (John); and her faithful companion Tucker, their beloved Jack Russell terrier who brought her so much joy the last 14 years.  Even in her final days, Penny's lively sense of humor, infectious smile, and boundless love touched everyone around her. Her legacy of warmth, kindness, and resilience will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing her.  A celebration of Penny's life will be held at Hampton Gentry Funeral Home in Plainfield, Indiana on Thursday, July 18, 2024 at 1:00 pm, with viewing beginning at 11:00 am until service time at 1:00pm. Burial will follow in Bethel Cemetery, Indianapolis.   In lieu of flowers, donations may also be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the Plainfield Humane Society in her memory.