Michael

Penson

Michael O’Neal Penson, known to many as “Stringbean,” was born on October 1, 1958, to Ilander and Bessie Penson. He was a 1977 graduate of Tupelo High School, where he was a member of the band. His involvement in music during his high school years was an early reflection of a lifelong passion that would remain an important part of his life for decades to come.

Michael accepted Christ at an early age and began his Christian journey at Mud Creek Missionary Baptist Church in Saltillo, Mississippi. As his walk with Christ continued, he later moved his membership to One Nation Church, where he faithfully served and was ordained as a Deacon. In his later years, he attended Holy Temple alongside his wife, where he continued to serve the Lord through his gift of music, playing the guitar. His faith remained an important part of his life, and his service to God was reflected through his dedication to the church and the gifts God entrusted to him.

He was a hardworking and dedicated man who believed in providing for his family. He began his work career at Mid-South before he became employed with Eljer Plumbing in Verona, Mississippi, where he faithfully worked for many years. He remained a dedicated employee until his health no longer allowed him to continue working.

Music was a special part of his life. He was a gifted lead guitarist and shared his love for music for more than 50 years. He was an original member of the Golden Wings Quartet and traveled with them over the years across the country. He used his musical gift to bring joy and inspiration to others far and near, and especially his son and grandson, who are a part of the beautiful legacy he leaves behind. He was also the lead guitarist for Spiritual True Lights.

Outside of music, in his younger years he loved to ride motorcycles with his father and brother. He loved fishing, working on cars, watching car shows on television, and going to Dodges daily for a cup of coffee. He also enjoyed gardening, cooking, and frying fish. He would often sit on the porch with his cats, enjoying the day and the company of those around him.

He loved spending time with his family and friends. Being called Uncle Mike brought him great joy. The moments shared by those who loved him became some of life's greatest treasures.

On Friday morning, September 4, 2026, Michael peacefully departed this life at North Mississippi Medical Center, surrounded by the love and presence of his wife and daughters. He leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a legacy of faith, family, music, and love.

Michael was preceded in death by his mother Bessie Penson; one brother Melvin Penson, one sister Dianne Penson Terrell, a grandson Malik Penson, his maternal and paternal grandparents, a brother- in- law James Garner and a niece Demetric Leshaun Holder.

Left to cherish his memories are his loving and devoted wife, Cruffulean “Criffie” Penson of Belden, Mississippi; his father, Ilander Penson of Tupelo, Mississippi; three children, Nivia (Reggie) Talley of Tupelo, Mississippi, Sheena Penson of Nettleton, Mississippi, and Michael Deangelo “Dede” Penson of Memphis, Tennessee; a special son and daughter, Jeremic (Eunisha) Brown of Tupelo, Mississippi, and Shay Brown of Saltillo, Mississippi; five stepchildren, Will (Debbie) Hadley, Sonya Hadley, Lukenya Hadley, Catisse Hadley, and Tyson Hadley, all of Belden, Mississippi; three grandchildren, Tra Ligon of Tupelo, Mississippi, and Trinity and Shaniyah Penson of Nettleton, Mississippi; fourteen step-grandchildren; and eighteen step great-grandchildren.

He also leaves to cherish his memories two sisters, Lucille Garner and Patricia (James) Shells; his mother-in-law, Catherine “Momma Cat” Hadley; two sisters-in-law, Gloria Penson and Cathy (Leonard) Shumpert; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and dear friends.

Michael will be remembered for the music he played, the work of his hands, the faith he carried, and most importantly, the love he had for his family. Though his earthly journey has ended, the melodies he played, the memories he created, and the love he shared will continue to live in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. And now, the man who spent so many years playing his guitar and sharing the music of the Golden Wings has laid his instrument down. We find comfort in believing that “Stringbean” has gone on to Walk the Streets of Glory, where there is no more pain, no more sickness, and no more sorrow.