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Debra K. Pennington

Debra Keevan Pennington is a Mobile County native whose life and work have been shaped by education, family, and a deep commitment to helping others grow. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of South Alabama in 1986, followed by a Master of Education with a specialization in English in 1989.

Debra began her career in education, teaching English in Mobile County Public Schools and later serving as an Instructor of Rhetoric and Composition in the English Department at the University of South Alabama. She later spent 18 years working full-time in her family business, Nibrock, Inc.

A devoted mother and grandmother, Debra is the mother of Dr. Elliott Pennington (and his wife, Megan) and Reed Pennington, and “Mimi” to Madeline, Harry, and Lee Pennington. She was married to Gordon Pennington for 24 years before being widowed in 2011 at age 48.

In 2024, Debra retired to begin a meaningful new chapter alongside her son Reed: helping launch Bake Blue Bakery. In August 2025, the two opened Bake Blue in Spanish Fort under a cottage license. Debra’s vision for this season of life is to help Reed achieve his dream of opening a storefront bakery that not only serves great baked goods, but also creates jobs for adults with disabilities and provides a place of belonging, growth, and connection for families.

Her favorite quote, from Willa Cather, reflects the heart behind her work and life: “Where there is great love, there are always miracles.”

Reed Pennington

Reed McMillan Pennington (age 34) was born in Mobile, Alabama, and has built his life around perseverance, purpose, and community. He attended O’Rourke Elementary School from kindergarten through fifth grade, where he received special education services. At age 12, Reed was formally diagnosed with high-functioning autism.

In 2006, the Pennington family moved from West Mobile to Spanish Fort so Reed could attend the newly opened Spanish Fort High School, which offered an autism program in a state-of-the-art setting. There, he benefited from the guidance of Scott Parks, his case manager and the founder of Project Outreach, a service club that connects students with disabilities and their non-disabled peers. Reed was part of the original chapter of Project Outreach.

Reed also enjoyed a full high school experience at Spanish Fort and was a four-year member of the varsity football team under Coach Bryant Vincent. In 2010, the Toros won their first state championship in Auburn, and Reed remains especially proud of being part of that team and earning a championship ring. He graduated in 2011.

Just six months after graduation, Reed experienced a profound loss when his father passed away in December 2011.

After high school, Reed worked 11 different jobs. As he searched for a place where he could truly belong and do meaningful work, he and his mother, Debra, began talking about building something of their own. Out of Reed’s love of baking — and a shared desire to create opportunities for others with disabilities — the dream for Bake Blue Bakery was born. In August 2025, Reed and Debra officially launched the business.

Reed’s vision is rooted in purpose, inclusion, and encouragement for others. As he says:

“No matter how you’re born or how disabled a person can be, you have a purpose in life. Choose the right path and be who you’re meant to be.”