Frederick James Penney, 56

It is with profound sadness that we share the unexpected passing of Frederick James Penney. He passed peacefully in his sleep on Saturday March 14, 2026. Fred was a devoted husband, father, son, son-in-law, coworker and friend to all. He left us far too soon at the age of 56.

He was a man known for his kindness, quiet humor and genuine spirit. Whether through a simple conversation, a helping hand, or a shared laugh, he had a way of making everyone feel valued and welcome. His friendly nature and easy smile left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Born in Concord, Massachusetts on January 14, 1970, Frederick was the loving son to Sally Ann Penney and the late John Charles Penney. Fred graduated from Chelmsford High School in 1988 and Assumption College in 1992. He later earned his Master’s degree in Counseling from Bridgewater State University. Upon graduation, he worked for inpatient facilities at Catholic Charities in Brockton, where he formed many life-long relationships with coworkers. He later transitioned to High Point in New Bedford where he worked in outpatient counseling. No matter the location, he built lasting relationships with coworkers and clients he met throughout the years. Fred was well-respected by all who worked with him.

Fred was the beloved husband of Eileen (Mullins) for over 30 years. Besides his wife Eileen, Fred is survived by his two children, Meaghan and Ryan Penney. Fred and Eileen met at Assumption College their freshman year and were later married in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit at Assumption College in 1995. Together they worked as a team, often supporting both of their children in school and extracurricular activities. Always a kid at heart, Fred found joy spending time discussing legos, Star Wars, the Marvel Universe with Ryan. Music of all genres and pop culture were a connection between Fred and Meaghan, especially when new albums were released. Fred was very active in the Middleboro community volunteering his time and talents for The Burt Wood School, Middleboro Baseball and Softball and CCD, where he earned the nickname Father Fred. As a father, he spent many hours enjoying Meaghan’s theater and dance performances and Ryan’s karate and sporting events. Halloween was a treasured family tradition, filled with a themed family costume each year for their annual party. As a family they loved to travel; driving cross-country, Disney cruises and parks, many National Parks, Knottsberry Farm and Cedar Point Park to visit Snoopy, and an annual summer vacation to Wellfleet. Eileen and Fred loved Coast Guard Beach, often staying well past the shuttle time, watching the sunset where Eileen would always capture the perfect sunset picture.

Fred was a devoted son and son-in-law, faithfully checking in on his mother and mother-in-law weekly. In addition to his family, he leaves behind his beloved golden retriever, Charlie and cats.

Though his time with us was cut far too short, the impact he made on the lives around him will endure. His legacy lives on in the love he gave, the lives he touched, and the family he cherished so deeply.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Anyone who wishes to attend the wake and religious services is encouraged to wear colors of the sea to honor Fred and his love of the Cape Cod National Seashore.

Visiting hours on April 3, 2026 from 3 until 6 p.m. in the O'Neill Funeral Home, 59 Peirce Street (corner of School Street) Middleboro.

A  Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on April 6, 2026 at 10 a.m. in Sacred Heart Church of Saint Isidore Parish, 340 Center Street, Middleboro.  A Celebration of Life will follow in The Alley Theatre, 133 Center Streeet, Middleboro. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of the following:

Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue located in Hudson, Massachusetts in honor of Fred Penney. https://ygrr.org/donate-in-honor-in-memory/

Friends of the Cape Cod National Seashore in honor of Fred Penney. https://fccns.wildapricot.org/Donate1

Or, the Animal Protection Center of Southeastern MA, where the family has adopted and donated throughout the years. Donate to the APCSM | Animal Protection Center of Southeastern Massachusetts (Powered by Donorbox) http://donorbox.org/donate-to-the-apcsm

To send condolences, please visit our website:  www.oneillfuneral.com