Penny Lynn Williamson

Penny Lynn Williamson, 58, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully at her home on August 7, 2025. She was born on October 19, 1966, in Niles, Michigan, to the late Dallas and Marilyn (Fitzgerald) Hunt. She was raised in Pokagon, Michigan where she spent much of her childhood swimming in the creek and riding her bicycle. She loved roller skating and her determination to skate continued even after breaking her arm twice. Penny was also a great dancer and never passed up a chance to show her skills. On August 30, 2001, Penny married the love of her life, Michael S. Williamson, in a small ceremony at Russ Forest County Park in Decatur, Michigan. They recently celebrated 23 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and numerous adventures.

Penny is survived by her husband, Michael; their son, Dallas (Angel) Williamson of Elkhart, and two grandsons she adored beyond measure, Wyatt and Waylon Williamson. She is also survived by her siblings Laura Willard of Edwardsburg, Timothy Hunt of Niles, Bobbi (Richard) Lowe of Cassopolis, and Madge Gajewski of Niles; nephews Cody Williamson and Robert Lowe; nieces Carla Lowe and Jesse Gajewski; and her two beloved “fur babies,” Duke and Daisy. She was preceded in death by her sister, Dee Dee Hunt.

Friends and family are invited to gather for visitation on Thursday, August 14, 2025, from 4–6 p.m. at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 6 p.m.

Penny’s work ethic was unmatched. She was dependable, punctual, and dedicated to every task she took on. She spent many years as a waitress at the White House of Niles and later at The Happy Cooker in Elkhart, where friends, family, and customers affectionately called her a “bad-a*s waitress.” She went on to serve as kitchen manager at Mr. G’s Restaurant in Osceola for over 13 years, where she became a familiar face and friend to the community. She had a lifelong love for rock music, with a special fondness for live concerts, especially Bret Michaels & Poison, and local favorites like Waylon Hanel. In her younger years, she loved roller skating and brought her competitive streak to the pool table, often “running the table” and giving Michael a real challenge.

Above all, Penny was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Her family was the center of her world, and she loved them fiercely. Throughout her courageous battle with cancer, she faced every challenge with grace, strength, and determination. To those who knew her, she will forever be remembered as a fighter who never gave up.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Humane Society of Elkhart or that a tree be planted in her memory. To light a virtual candle, share a story, or leave a message of comfort for Penny’s family, please visit the Guestbook tab above.

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