Obituaries

Virginia “Anne” Penny Schober

July 31, 2025

Virginia “Anne” Penny Schober, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away July 31st surrounded by loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories.

Born to the late Dennis and Jo Penny, Anne was known for her wit, warmth, and boundless energy. She is survived by her devoted husband, Mike, of 40 years, who remained her steadfast partner through life’s many adventures.

Anne was a proud and loving mother to Michelle Schober (Chad Bucher), JoAnne Stengel (Mike Stengel), and Stephen Schober (Kylee Schober), and an adoring grandmother—known as “Juice”—to Teddy, Ollie, Casey, Lucas, Murphie, and Scottie. She also leaves behind her step mother, Kathy Penny, sister Denise Noblitt (Red), brother Denny Penny, Jr., and many nieces and nephews who each held a special place in her heart.

Anne’s career path was as dynamic as her personality—from Pathologist Secretary to daycare provider, teacher, writer, and most proudly, a lifelong educator. After earning her degree in English Education in her 30s, she taught at Lampeter-Strasburg, Columbia, and Lancaster Catholic, eventually becoming English Department Chair. Her students were “her kids,” and she made an indelible impact on each of them.

Crowned Mrs. Pennsylvania in 1996, Anne used her platform to inspire confidence and self-worth in young people. She later pursued writing, sharing her humor and insights through books and blogs, even as she faced chronic illness with resilience and grace.

Anne lived life fully— family beach vacations, cheering on Notre Dame football (loudly), hosting legendary family events (including serving her famous Gin Bucket), and tubing. A dedicated Parrothead, she embraced joy and mischief at every turn.

She will be remembered for her generous heart, fierce loyalty, and contagious laughter.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, August 14 at 12:00 P.M. at St. John Neumann Catholic Church (601 E. Delp Road). Visitation with the family will begin at 10:00 AM. Please wear bright, happy colors to honor Anne’s vibrant spirit.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice and Community Care (Lancaster).

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Condolences to the Family

August 05, 2025

You were one of the best teachers I’ve ever had, Mrs. Schober. Your freedom writer journals were a relief and your classroom was a refuge. You’re destined for sainthood, and will be missed entirely. My sincerest condolences to the entire family. . Erin Lane (Brennan), LCHS class of 07

August 05, 2025

This woman will no doubt one day be cannonized a saint and it was an honor to know her as she greeteed me as well as my fellow Crusaders every day with nothing but a smile, listening ear, or warm hug when needed. Mrs. Schober was more like a second mom to me and I am forever grateful that she made me a better person during a difficult time in my life. My thoughts are with all of those that loved her, which is infinite, but especially her family.  Anne blessed the lives of many through word and example. She is now pain free running to the arms of Jesus receiving the ultimate award until we are all reunited in Heaven again. I hope that Notre Dame wins the national championship in her honor this season. Go Irish and Go Mrs. Schober!

August 05, 2025

Greetings family and friends of Anne,
This picture exudes such warmth, which is how we all remember Anne first.
My condolences to us all. She has been a light for so many and we will keep her light going.
Is there any way to broadcast her service for those of us living far away?
Much love to all who read this.
-Karen Gibson

August 04, 2025

God blesses you all for being so close to this saint! I am so proud of all of you. Although I cannot be with you for the celebration of her life, my prayers and spiritual presence will be with you❤️.
Molly Penny

August 04, 2025

To all the Pennys
I regret I never got to meet Anne, although I have heard many stories from my sisters, Mary and Peggy, from their adventures with the Denny Penny family in Terre Haute and later travels.
Having grown up in the 40s and 50s with all the Pennys and Flynns and Joyces in Gary Indiana, I’m not surprised to see the character and love of family that Anne exemplified. I have been reading Anne’s blog from the beginning.  So wise… Much of it will help me when my time comes.
There is nothing more powerful than the truth.  I agree with Anne.  Life is hard. Death is harder.  Grace in death is hardest of all.
Seems like she mastered every step.
My sisters are out there somewhere with Uncle Steve on the organ and they are playing Anne’s song.
May God Bless her and all of you.
–Cousin Pat McCarthy, Clarkston, MI
 
 
 

August 04, 2025

Mrs Schober was my 11th grade English teacher. I am now 39 years old. She was definitely the teacher none of us will ever forget. She always felt honored to come to columbia. She never treated us like students. She always treated us like her own kids. She believed in us. I didnt see her in years but hearing her name and seeing her picture feels like time has never passed. Rest in peace. Sending love and prayers to her beautiful family.
Alegra Brooks

August 04, 2025

Anne was an amazing Freedom Writer friend to me. We laughed and enjoyed the institutes with other educators in our field. She will be dearly missed by many. Blessing and prayers to all of you at this time. 
Charlotte Fong

August 04, 2025

Anne Schober was among the sweetest and most exuberant women i have ever known…. she was one of my heroines. I knew her, her siblings, and parents since I was a young child…. she left a beautiful smile in the hearts of everyone who met her. Until we meet again, sweet Annie. If anyone is ever going to Heaven, it’s you. Will always love and miss you.
Anne Burget

August 04, 2025

“FOREVER LOVED, FOREVER REMEMBERED.”  MUCH LOVE & PRAYERS TO THE SHOBER FAMILY – ANNE WAS THE EPITOME OF A GREAT PERSON!  I CAN ONLY HOPE TO LIVE LIFE LIKE SHE DID.  MAY YOU FIND PEACE IN KNOWING HOW MANY PEOPLE SHE TOUCHED.  
GRETCHEN STARK

August 04, 2025

Mike and family along w/ Anne’s friends, we send our sincere condolences to you all. She was a wonderful woman and love her writing. Just ordered her 4th book as I already have the other 3. Sending warm hugs to you Mike.
Your friends,
Mike and Janet

August 04, 2025

Mike,
I was heartbroken to hear about your wife’s passing. Please accept my deepest condolences. I can’t begin to imagine the pain you’re going through, but I want you to know that I’m thinking of you and your family during this incredibly difficult time.
Wishing you comfort and peace in the days ahead.
 
With sympathy,
Jeremy Horvath

August 04, 2025

So sorry for your loss Mike.  May God bless you and your family.  Take care my friend.
Matthew A. Cranmer

August 04, 2025

Heartbroken for your family over your loss. Anne never failed to bring sunshine (even during a thunderstorm) to those around her, whether in the classroom or down the block. She radiated genuine joy and was truly the definition of an inspirational, amazing human. She will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on all who were lucky enough to know her in any capacity. Sending you all love and hugs, knowing you will live life all the louder in her honor ❤️
Danielle McEntee

August 04, 2025

There is just so much to say about Anne. I will miss so many things – genuine talks about our lives and struggles, great hugs, jokes that didn’t get finished by Anne, Mai Tai day!, being on Kairos together, working at LCHS together, raising our kids together, vacations, playing “Anne” games, playing pinochle, being encouraged to be in uncomfortable yet fun situations, Notre Dame football – having to stay where you were if ND did something good, hugs and kisses if ND scored.  The list could go on and on and on.  My tears as I write this are a reflection of her love.  I am so happy to have experienced that love for so, so long.  Thank you Anne.
This quote is one of my favorites from Anne and somerhing I am trying to live.  
I used to rush through sunsets, barely noticing them. Now I understand they are daily reminders of how to say goodbye with grace. The sun doesn’t fight the horizon. It doesn’t rage against the darkness that’s coming. It simply gives all its light, all its warmth, all its beauty, right up until the last possible moment. And then it trusts that morning will come again, even if not for this particular day.
Anne Schober – May 2025
Rich Hinnenkamp

August 04, 2025

Sending many prayers of love, comfort and peace to Anne’s family and loved ones. She was one of the most beautiful and inspiring souls that anyone could ever know, and I’m an so thankful and blessed to have known her myself. Fly high amongst the angels Mrs. Schober. Your legacy will never fade.
Meghan Sharp

August 04, 2025

One of the best teachers every to grace Lancaster Catholic.
Mrs. Schober cared for all of her students and helped so many find thier voice!
Always had a smile on her face and could make anyone’s day better.
Go Irish! 
Joe Kirchner class of 2010! 

August 04, 2025

Our thoughts and prayers are with you Mike, and your family.  Anne was a special lady and will be missed by all. 
Nancy and Wanda

Visitation
Thursday, August 14, 2025
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
St. John Neumann Catholic Church
601 E. Delp Rd
Lancaster, PA 17601
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Services
Thursday, August 14, 2025
12:00 PM
St. John Neumann Catholic Church
601 E. Delp Rd
Lancaster, PA 17601
Map and Directions

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