William Jerry Pendleton

William Jerry PendletonSeptember 10, 1939 – September 21, 2025Ararat, Virginia

William Jerry Pendleton, a devoted husband, beloved father, cherished grandfather and great-grandfather, and lifelong servant through music and ministry, passed away at the age of 86.

Born on September 10, 1939, in Lincolnton, North Carolina, Jerry was the son of the late William Howard Pendleton and Eunice Bonevent Icard Pendleton. His life was defined by deep love for family and a profound passion for music that touched the hearts of all who knew him.

Jerry honorably served in the United States Navy as a Musician Second Class (MU-2) from 1958 to 1962. He continued his musical calling with the Southern Territory Staff Band of the Salvation Army (1962–1971) and served faithfully as a Salvation Army officer (minister) during much of that time. In 1974, he earned his Bachelor of Music from the University of Texas at Austin—a milestone that reflected both his talent and dedication.

His professional journey included performing with the Gilbert Kautz Orchestra (1971–1974), leading worship as Choir Director at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Lincolnton (1974–1979), and spending 25 years shaping young minds as a middle school band director (1974–1999). In the 1980s, Jerry performed with the Western Piedmont Orchestra, further demonstrating his versatility and love for the craft.

Even in retirement, Jerry never ceased to share his gifts. He led a beginner band for all ages at Grace Moravian Church in Mount Airy, NC (2016–2019). He founded The Nature Trail Ensemble in 2002 and later established Grace Notes Ensemble, which provides a music ministry for churches, nursing homes, prisons, and charities. He continued to serve God and his community through music until the very end of his life.  

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 64½ years, Tommie Sue George Pendleton, and their three children:•    Laurie Tucker Pendleton Stroupe and husband Andrew•    Joseph Paul Pendleton and wife Lynne•    Wendie Lane Pendleton Gwynn and husband Jimmy

He was a proud grandfather to:•    David Austin Gwynn and wife Heather•    Widow of Michael “Todd” Gwynn, Keshia•    Sarah Ruth Stroupe Martin•    Daniel Jacob Stroupe•    Lydia Rebekah Stroupe•    Anna Christian Stroupe•    Amber Lynn McCord•    Talia Dawn McCord

And a joyful great-grandfather to:•    Micah Todd Gwynn•    Zoe Rayne Gwynn•    Eli Benjamin Martin•    Aubrey Grayce Gwynn•    Alec Corie Gwynn•    Jeremiah Marshall Cox•    Kaylee Dawn Quillen•    Madelyn Hennessey Cox•    Kira Lynne Quillen•    Everlee River Dieterle

He is also survived by his brothers and sister:•    Lewis Forrest Pendleton•    George Alton Pendleton•    Ebbie Ray Pendleton•    Douglas Paul Pendleton•    Sheila Faye Pendleton Callaway

He was preceded in death by:•    His beloved grandson, Michael “Todd” Gwynn•    His parents, William Howard and Eunice Bonevent Icard Pendleton•    His sister, Freida Delores Hovis•    His brothers, Don Boyce Pendleton and Dennis Keith Pendleton

Jerry also leaves behind lifelong and dearly loved friends and family:•    Loyd and Donella Stevens•    John and Jaquelyn Tolan•    Ra’mon and Shawna HallA man of great faith, immense talent, and gentle wisdom, Jerry’s legacy is carried on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be remembered not only for his music but for his humility, kindness, and unwavering love for his family and community.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at Grace Moravian Church on Monday, September 29, 2025 at 11:30 AM with the Rev. Andrew Heil officiating. The family will receive friends at the church on Monday from 9:30 until 11:30 AM prior to the memorial service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the music ministry of Grace Moravian Church in Mount Airy, North Carolina—honoring Jerry’s lifelong dedication to worship through music. Vaughan-Guynn-McGrady Chapel is serving the family.