Lee Pennington Neill

The sister I’ve always been so proud of passed away suddenly on July 18, 2022 of cardiac arrest. She was loved by Santa Barbara residents  as a teacher to their children and mentor to many, including me. No matter what the problem, death, grief, relationships, Lee would light a certain color of candle to help someone through.  She studied and knew all she could learn about children’s brains applying the knowledge to her teaching. Children were always on her mind.  A long time and devoted educator, her giving heart just gave out.

She was born to the late Shirley and B.K. Pennington in San Francisco, CA.  She was the sister to the late Richard Pennington and her surviving  sister, Cheryl Lynn Curnutt in Morro Bay.  Lee received her MEd from Oregon State University and her PhD from UCSB.  She was an advocate of Jean Ayres Sensory Integration International.

She worked tirelessly with students, parents and peers.  She kept in touch with many of them as they have succeeded in their adult lives. She also gave to any cause to help those less fortunate.  She made long lasting relationships with those students, parents and peers.  Lee was generous to a fault, adored children and animals, and was an advocate for those she deemed in need.

A celebration of her life is being planned for the Fall.