Popular Dallas music figure Chris Penn dies at age 54 following tragic fall
Chris Penn, co-founder of Good Records and a revered Dallas music figure, died Wednesday at age 54, five weeks after a fall left him paralyzed.
Penn's wife, Jenn, announced his passing on social media, highlighting his enduring spirit and the lasting impression he left behind.
He co-founded Good Records, a Dallas record shop, in 2000 with frontman Tim DeLaughter and Julie Doyle, the singer's wife.
Accident led to untimely passing
On March 17, he fell while taking down a decal from the window of his record shop.
"His injuries were just too great for his ravaged body to continue," Jenn Penn said. "These are the hardest words I have ever had to write, to witness and process."
Mourning loss of beloved music icon
Jenn Penn said Dallas lost a treasure; she lost her partner of 21 years, his kids lost their father, and his brother lost his hero.
"Chris was an incredible force of nature, and his heart always seemed to have room for more connection... more love... more friendships," she said. "That is who Chris was. That will be his legacy for our kids."
Spirit shines through during ICU stay
She said he befriended everyone during his 36 days in the ICU, influencing an ICU doctor to play guitar and serenade them "during some difficult nights."
"The entire ICU floor at Baylor shared in our grief," she said.
Imagining a heaven with his favorite things
She said she imagined a heaven for him filled with Mexican food, pinball machines, and classic movies.
"If there is a heaven, and I hope there is one more than ever, I'm sure his arrival is causing a stir," she said.
