Mary Ella Blue Penn, a 77-year-old African American woman from Red Springs, North Carolina, passed away on May 10, 2020. She was born on May 5, 1943, to Halbert T. Blue Sr. and Amanda Johnson Blue. Mary Ella was a dedicated member of the Pilgrim Holiness Church, where she served on the usher board, taught Sunday school, and was a member of the choir.
She also worked for the Internal Revenue Service, Dupont, and Lockheed before retiring and moving back to North Carolina.
Tragically, Mary Ella Blue Penn's death was not due to natural causes. Justin Penn, her 18-year-old grandson, was charged with first-degree murder in connection with her death. The incident occurred on Mother's Day, May 10, 2020, at her home on Hubert McLean Avenue in Red Springs. Justin Penn was arrested and charged with the murder of his grandmother.
The case drew significant attention in the Red Springs community and beyond, as it involved a family member committing such a heinous act. The investigation was conducted by the Red Springs Police Department, and Major Kimothy Monroe confirmed the charges against Justin Penn. The motive behind the murder remains unclear, but the legal proceedings continued as the community sought justice for Mary Ella Blue Penn.
Mary Ella Blue Penn is remembered fondly by her family and friends for her active involvement in her church and her love for cooking, traveling, and spending time with her loved ones. Her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
