Bonnie Zuela Claiborne Pennington, lovingly known as "Mimi, Mom, and Penny" passed away peacefully in Corpus Christi, Texas, surrounded by family and love. Born on February 21, 1934, in Grayson County, Texas, Zuela lived a long and beautiful life rooted in faith, family, and fierce independence.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Stephanie Pennington; her parents, Luther L. Claiborne and Meda Barker Claiborne; her siblings, Scoot Cox, Jack Cox, Faye Snider, and Coy Claiborne; and her sweet dachshund, Chili Dog. She is also reunited in spirit with Thomas C. Pennington—her former husband and lifelong companion—who remained a dear and constant presence in her life.

Mimi is survived by her loving children: Mark C. Pennington, Craig Pennington, and stepdaughter Patricia (Patti) Busse. She is also survived by her sister, Jo Ann Claiborne Arnold, and brother-in-law, John Arnold. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Jessica Vera, Amy Demel, Kelsie Pennington, Catherine Pennington, and Shaun Dunk; and her great-grandchildren: Cody Pennington, Luke Pennington, Bexlee Dunk, Brylee Dunk, Briar Dunk, Cleo Hallum, and August Neff.

Zuela graduated from Bells High School and went on to complete business school before beginning a remarkable 51-year career in the mortgage lending industry. A trailblazer among women in a male-dominated field, she held numerous titles and built lasting respect and relationships through her dedication, integrity, and excellence. The ever- changing nature of her work kept her challenged—just the way she liked it.

Public visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church 808 Louisiana Ave. Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m.  Interment will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at Mission Burial Park South 1700 SE Military Drive in San Antonio, Texas, 78214.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Zuela's greatest joy and pride came from her family. She was a devoted mother and grandmother who helped raise her grandchildren with steadfast love, gentle guidance, and unwavering support. A true matriarch, she led by example—with grace, kindness, and quiet strength.

Her passions included painting, gardening, church fellowship, and spending time with her friends in the congregation at Trinity Lutheran Church, which she joined in the late 1990s after a lifelong foundation in the Baptist faith. She found beauty in life's simplest pleasures: fresh flowers, the warm Corpus Christi sun, and the music of Kenny G and Willie Nelson— especially "Always on my Mind"

Affectionally crowned the "Best Mimi Ever," she also took great pride in being named the "Best Recycler in Corpus Christi." Her family will remember her faith, warmth, humor, and the unconditional love she gave so freely.

Zuela's family invites all who knew and loved her to celebrate her life with the music she cherished, the flowers she adored, and the stories that defined her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Zuela's honor to The Corpus Christi Botanical
Gardens