Obituary: Christopher Jennings Penders, 60, of Madison

Christopher Jennings Penders passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 5th 2024 at Yale New Haven Hospital.

Chris was born in Norwich Connecticut on August 20th 1964 and moved to Madison where he established a lifelong network of friendships. Chris graduated from Daniel Hand High School and Southern Connecticut State University where he received his Bachelor of Library Science.

Chris was a fixture in the town of Madison, working at the E.C Scranton Memorial Library as well as RJ Julia Booksellers for many years. Additionally, he was an accomplished author as well as photographer. His work and writings were a great source of pride and joy for him. The connections he established were the foundations to his diverse group of lifelong friends. He also felt a strong connection to the North Madison Congregational Church as a member.

Aside from writing, Chris especially loved spending time on Block Island with family and friends as well as East Wharf beach in Madison. He was an avid Red Sox fan and looked forward to attending opening day games at Fenway Park.

Chris is survived by his mother Barbara Penders and stepfather Jack Penders, brother Mike (Kali) Penders and John (Laura) Penders, step sisters Lisa Jennings, Shannon Jennings and stepbrother John Jennings. Additionally ,he is survived by his nieces Rylee and Teagan Penders and nephews Sean and James Penders. He was pre-deceased by his father Richard Jennings, maternal grandparents Harold and Esther Hoffman.

Chris will be profoundly missed by his family, friends and community.

Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 13th at the North Madison Congregational Church, followed by a reception at the church. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his honor to the Scranton Memorial Library.