Julia Sue Barefoot Penny

Julia Sue Barefoot Penny, affectionately known as "J Sue" by her family and friends, of Garner, North Carolina, went to meet her Lord and Savior at home on November 7,2025, at the age of 82, surrounded by her loving family.

Julia was the daughter of the late Thomas and Mary Ann Barefoot and was born on April 9,1943. She was a 1961 graduate of Meadow High School, where she was active in sports and school activities. Julia was the second-highest scorer in her area during her basketball career. She married Calvin Penny in 1962 and had two daughters, Susan and Meredyth. Julia lived a life filled with faith, love, and a sense of purpose. She was devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose kindness and compassion touched the lives of countless people.

Her family was her heart, and she found her greatest joy in watching each generation grow, always cheering them on with pride and unconditional love.

A natural leader and dedicated professional, Julia managed Garner Family Practice for over 25 years, guiding the office with her strong work ethic, integrity, and compassion. Her career reflected her commitment not just to success, but to the people she served, making every patient and colleague feel welcomed and valued. She was also awarded The Order of the Long Leaf Pine by former governor James B. Hunt Jr. on November 20, 1980.

Her faith guided her every step, and she lived it out through acts of service, generosity, and grace. Those who knew Julia will remember her as someone who made an impact simply by being herself. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she touched.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Calvin Penny; her parents, Thomas and Mary Ann Barefoot; and her brother, Keith Barefoot.

She is survived by her two daughters, Susan DeJarnette (Randy) and Meredyth Wimberly; three grandchildren, Jennifer DeJarnette, Kristyn DeJarnette, and Haleigh Wimberly (her admitted favorite) (Nicole); four great-grandchildren, Olivia DeJarnette, Ivy West, Lucas Kalapati, and Isabella Simpkins; and one great-great-grandchild, Colson Tavares. In addition, Julia is survived by two brothers, Clyde Barefoot (Gail) and Phil Barefoot. She has two sisters, Dianne B. Wood and Sharon Rose Burnette (Bill); and one sister-in-law Margie Barefoot. Julia has many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Barefoot Cemetery, 132 Crystal Place, Benson, NC 27504. Please note that flowers cannot be placed at the mausoleum. Memorial contributions may also be made to the Alzheimer's Society.

The family will receive friends and relatives for visitation from 7:00 PM until 9:00 PM on Friday, November 14, 2025, at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home in Garner.

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, November 15, 2025, in the chapel of Bryan-Lee Funeral Home in Garner. Entombment will be private at Pinecrest Memorial Park, Clayton.

Funeral arrangements are by Bryan-Lee Funeral Home of Garner. Online condolences may be made at www.bryan-leefuneralhome.com