Penelope Lee “Penny” Gore passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on June 12, 2026, at the age of 85.
Born to Jack and June Lee, Penny was the second of three daughters. She spent her early years in Berkeley, Calif., and throughout her life called many California communities home, including
Point Richmond, Denair, Santa Rosa, Mariposa and, for more than 30 years, Davis.
As a young woman, Penny worked alongside her parents in the family’s Greyhound bus and shipping business. Later, while raising her children, she worked as a teacher’s aide in Mariposa County schools. Once her children were grown, she embarked on a successful career as a realtor in Mariposa and then later in Davis.
She took particular joy in helping first-time buyers and young families find a place to call home, and she often spoke of the satisfaction that came from being part of such an important moment in their lives. Over the years, she helped many families put down roots in the community that she loved.
Penny’s greatest pride was her family. She was a loving and devoted mother, nana and great-grandmother, sister, aunt and cousin whose encouragement, support and unwavering love enriched the lives of those around her. She is survived by her five children, 15 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends.
Throughout her life, Penny displayed a remarkable resilience. Fiercely independent and determined, she met life’s challenges head-on and rarely let obstacles stand in her way.
Whether navigating the responsibilities of raising a family, rebuilding her life as a single mother or coping with personal loss, she faced adversity with courage, perseverance and a stubborn resolve that those who knew her came to admire. Her strength of character left a lasting impression on all who knew and loved her.
She found joy in life’s simple pleasures: losing herself in a good book, taking walks and spending time with the people she loved. And when she lived in Mariposa, she loved taking her children to the Mariposa County Fair and to the Merced River to fish and swim.
Penny was also an avid follower of current events and politics. A lifelong Democrat, she rarely missed a news broadcast or newspaper article and was always eager to discuss the latest political developments.
She held her views passionately and enjoyed spirited conversations with those who shared her convictions. Those who knew Penny knew she was never afraid to speak her mind, especially on matters she cared deeply about.
Penny was preceded in death by her beloved sisters, Linda Lane and Nicole Lee, and by her eldest daughter, Kathryn Carpenter Holm.
She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.
In lieu of flowers, please donate in her name to The Path Finder Network at www.thepathfindernetwork.org/
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