Penelope S. "Pene" Tyree

Penelope S. “Pene” Tyree of Shelbyville, Tennessee, formerly of Rocky Mount, Virginia, passed away on Tuesday January 27, 2026, at the age of 79. She was preceded in death by her parents, Gordon T. Tyree and Mabel Fralin Tyree; and her brother, Patrick T. Tyree. She is survived by sister-in-law, Shelley Ellison Tyree; and numerous cousins.

As a retired Franklin County special education teacher, she devoted her career to meeting the needs of children with a wide variety of challenges. She ardently cared for children who were non-verbal or had with the most physically demanding needs for as long as she was able. She loved to travel and participate in horse shows. She was also passionate about animal rescue, adopted several dogs, and supported many rescue organizations. She loved animals and ran a side pet sitting business for people wanting to leave their pets at home while they were on vacation or out of town. In retirement, she moved to Tennessee to follow her passion for Tennessee Walking horses. She attended the Walking Horse Celebration for 61 years. She enjoyed playing softball, volleyball, and basketball. She was a member of Beulah Baptist Church along with her family.

The family would like to thank the care teams at Harton Regional Medical Center, Compassus Hospice and her friends, Bert and Donna Kay Everette, for their dignified care.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggest a memorial donation in her memory to a Public Broadcasting Service TV, an animal shelter, Beulah Church or your favorite charity.

Graveside services will be held at Franklin Memorial Park 2 p.m. Saturday, February 21, 2026 with Pastor Deke Andrews officiating. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.