Pennell served as Lake Junaluska’s youth director from 1958 to 1959. Several years later, he and his wife honeymooned at the lake. They returned every year until they purchased their first house there in 1973. They became full-time residents in 1999. 

Known for his volunteerism, Pennell has spent countless hours sharing his passion for Lake Junaluska. He is currently the chairman of the Lake Junaluska Community Council and a member of Lake Junaluska’s Board of Trustees. A dedicated member of the Junaluska Associates, Pennell has served as its president. In addition, he was a member of the Memorial Chapel communion team and is a Sunday usher at Stuart Auditorium. Pennell also helped initiate the annual Interfaith Peace Conference and has served as treasurer for the event since its inception.