Penelope "Penny" Bond McCraw

Penny McCraw was born May 15, 1969 in Memphis, Tennessee and departed this world on October 30, 2024. 

She was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, friend artist and chef. She is survived by her mother, Beverly Shackelford, McCraw Hassell, and her brothers, Tom (Donna) McCraw and James (Veronica) McCraw and her nieces and nephews, Deanna (Dan) Jasinski, Ben McCraw (Liz), Alex McCraw (Clarissa), Shelbi Shultz and Libbi Shultz. She is preceded by her father, Dr C.T McCraw, and her stepfather, Rev Jerry Hassell. 

Penny was a very talented chef with a long culinary career, but her favorite job was her current position as the Director of Culinary Operations at the Memphis Zoo. She received many culinary accolades and had an illustrious career, especially since she was completely self taught. 

Her greatest passion, however, was animals especially her own dogs and cats. She rescued and fostered many animals over the years and was a loyal volunteer at the Tunica Humane Society. All of her animals were her “fur babies.” They were her everything. PJ (a senior tri-leg dog) is still looking for his forever home…if you are interested contact Tunica Humane Society. 

Above all Penny was fun, over-the-top colorful, eccentric, bright, hilarious, a devoted friend, and always the life of the party. She was compassionate, generous and loving to all who knew and adored her. She will be greatly missed by all. Cheers to Penny and a life well-lived. 

The family requests in lieu of flowers to please make a donation to the Tunica Humane Society in her honor at https://tunica-humane-society.square.site

A celebration of life was held Saturday 11/9/24 from 4pm-8pm at the Memphis Zoo in the Teton Trek Lodge. Heavy hors d’oeuvres and refreshments were provided. A memorial service was held Sunday at noon in Braden, Tennessee at the United Methodist Church, with a graveside service immediately following.