Penelope Mya Huff was only 15, but she had already built an impressive record in high school sports. The Licking, Missouri, teenager earned major volleyball honors, won track championships, set a school record, and helped her teams bring home multiple titles. Her death on November 1, 2026, has left her hometown grieving the loss of a young athlete whose accomplishments had made her stand out among her peers.
A sophomore at Licking High School, Penelope had quickly established herself as one of the school’s leading volleyball players. She earned First Team All-Conference and First Team All-District honors during both her freshman and sophomore seasons. Her performances also earned her the Frisco League Most Valuable Player award during her sophomore year.
Those honors came after years of commitment to the sport. Penelope helped her school team win two district championships and two conference tournament championships across the 2025 and 2026 seasons. She also played club volleyball for Club Phoenix, taking part in numerous tournaments.
Her achievements on the volleyball court were only part of her sporting record. Penelope was also a successful track and field athlete, winning a state championship in the 400 meters while attending junior high school. She further distinguished herself by setting a school record in the 100-meter dash with a time of 13.35 seconds.
During her freshman year, she won four individual district track titles and qualified for three events at the state track meet. She also earned All-District recognition in basketball, showing that her athletic ability extended well beyond one sport.
But Penelope was not defined by athletics alone. She had a strong interest in art and was recognized at Frisco League art competitions for her creative work. She enjoyed drawing and making artwork, another side of her personality that friends and classmates will remember.
Born on August 2, 2011, Penelope was the daughter of John Huff and Camerin (Heithold) Fester. She grew up in Licking and Rolla, Missouri, surrounded by family and people who supported her interests and achievements.
Her Christian faith was another important part of her life. Penelope professed her faith in God and was involved with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at Licking High School. Outside school activities, she valued the people closest to her, including her family, friends, teammates, and coaches.
She is survived by her parents, John and Camerin; her stepfather, Jacob Fester; her brothers, Parker Huff and Jett Fester; her grandparents; extended relatives; and numerous other loved ones. Her passing on November 1 has brought deep sadness to the people who knew her and followed her journey through school and sports.
Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday, November 7, at 11 a.m. at Assembly of God Church, located at 205 Highway 63 in Licking. Family and friends may pay their respects during visitation from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Pastor David Jett will lead the service, with burial to follow at 12:15 p.m. at Licking Cemetery, 318 N. Main Street.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Licking High School Booster Club or Licking Cemetery.
Penelope’s record of achievements tells the story of a teenager who made the most of her time in school. She competed, won championships, earned recognition, and pursued interests outside the sports field. Yet, for the people closest to her, her greatest importance was never measured by medals, trophies, or records.
Her family and the Licking community must now face life without a young girl who had so much ahead of her. The achievements she leaves behind offer a lasting reminder of what she accomplished in her 15 years, while the memories she created with those around her will remain part of her family’s story.
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