Penny Lynn Bell Matthiesen

Penny Lynn (Bell) Matthiesen passed away peacefully on October 17, 2026, in Gulfport, Mississippi. She was born on July 31, 1955, in Springfield, Illinois, to James E. Bell and Maxine L. (Clover) Bell, who preceded her in death. 

Penny is survived by her two daughters, Lindsay M. (Matthiesen) Impson and Casey J. (Matthiesen) Johnson; her eight grandchildren, Mason (Kelsi), Hayden, Gretchen, Lane, Parker, MaKinley, Mavyrk, and Brexleigh; her great-grandchildren, Waylon and Michael; and her two sisters, Patricia Bell and Pamela Musselman. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Mike Matthiesen, in 2015.

An avid horsewoman from an early age, Penny developed a lifelong passion for horses and riding. Her talent and dedication earned her numerous blue ribbons and trophies. Following high school, she graduated from Lincoln Land Community College with an Associate of Arts degree. Penny met Mike Matthiesen, a well-known and respected horse farrier, in Springfield, Illinois. The two were married on September 2, 1978, at the First Christian Church, beginning a life together centered on family, horses, and their shared love of the equestrian world.

While raising their daughters as a full-time homemaker, Penny also volunteered at the schools they attended. After the children were grown, she worked as a Teacher’s Aide for children with special needs. Her greatest hobby remained horseback riding, and she took pride in her accomplishments in horse reining as a member of NRHA, earning numerous trophies along the way. Penny, Mike, and their daughters spent countless days traveling the horse circuit. Penny showed her horses, Mike shod them, and the entire family delighted in the camaraderie and excitement of the horse stables and arenas. These years created cherished memories that remained an important part of Penny’s life.

Later, Penny and Mike moved to Diamondhead, Mississippi, to enjoy their retirement years. Penny embraced the unique spirit of the Gulf Coast, especially its lively Mardi Gras traditions and beautiful beaches. Her love of flamingos became a signature part of her personality, reflected in an extensive collection of flamingo statuary and memorabilia in every imaginable shape and size.

Above all, Penny treasured time spent with her children, grandchildren, and many dear friends. Her love of horses, her enthusiasm for life, and the special memories she created with those around her will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on November 14,2026 at Passion Community Church in Mt. Zion, Illinois.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Pass Christian, is honored to serve the Matthiesen family. An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at www.riemannfamily.com .