Daren “Woo” Penny, 61, of San Francisco, died Aug. 21, 2026. Daren was the youngest son of Ozell and Betty Johnson Penny. He was born and raised in Gurdon, AR. At a very young age, he accepted Christ into his life. He was a member of Bethel AME under the leadership of Pastor H.H. Scott.
Daren attended Gurdon Public School, class of 1983. During his years as a Gurdon Go-Devil, Daren stood out in crowds all over Arkansas and was recognized throughout the nation for his phenomenal basketball skills on the court. He was one of the few players in his stature to dominate the position of point guard. Daren led his team to win the State Championship in 1982. His abilities on the court earn him the name “WOO” Penny. “Woo” Penny became a household name in many homes.
After graduation, Daren worked at Fafnir Bearing Company. Later, he made the decision to move to San Francisco, CA. He made this his home for 34 years.
On August 21, 2026, at the young age of 61, he was welcomed with open arms by his mother and father; his oldest sister, Annie Marie Lacy and niece Shanika Martin.
He leaves to cherish his memories two his siblings, Harold Marks Penny from Atlanta, GA, Rickey (Mary) Penny from Delight, AR, and Karen Penny Young from Bauxite, AR. He also leaves four nieces, four nephews, five great nieces and nephews as well as manycousins, friends, classmates and teammates.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Williams Funeral Home of Arkadelphia.