Robert William Pendergast

1939 - 2024

PENDERGAST, Robert William, passed peacefully at home on June 13, 2024, surrounded by the voices of his family. "Bob" was born in Grafton, WV, on October 20, 1939, to the late Thomas Leo and Edith Gibson Pendergast. He was also preceded in death by brothers, Thomas F. Pendergast and Richard Joseph Pendergast.

Bob and his Keyser (WV) High School sweetheart, Nancy Taylor Pendergast, celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary on June 7th of this year. They remained sweethearts and taught their family by example about love and commitment. Bob is also survived by his daughters, Susan Armentrout (David) and Leigh Casarotti (Jon), who know how fortunate they are to have been guided and loved by him. Bob shared his wisdom and humor with four cherished grandchildren, Matt Armentrout (Carter), Nate Armentrout, Taylor Casarotti Frampton (Scott), and Blake Casarotti. The arrival of great-grandson, Rex Armentrout in 2023 brought him immense joy. Bob is also survived by his "little" brother, of whom he was so proud, Col. USMC (Ret.) James Pendergast (Bridget); sister-in-law, Judy Athey; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Bob grew up in Newburg and Keyser, WV and graduated with a BS degree in Journalism from West Virginia University in 1961. He commissioned in the United States Army as a Second Lieutenant and was stationed in Berlin, Germany after completing Infantry Ranger and Airborne schools. Bob was honorably discharged in 1964 as a 1st Lieutenant after serving as a Unit Commander at Fort Myer in "The Old Guard." After the Army, Bob became a journalist and then night editor with the Associated Press in Los Angeles. He transitioned to a Public Relations career, earning executive PR roles with Reynold Metals, Norfolk & Western, and Robertshaw Controls Corp. He joined Media General in 1988, where he remained until his retirement as Vice President of Corporate Communications in 2000.

Bob loved hunting, fishing, and spending time with dear friends, but his happiest times were spent on the Hermitage Country Club golf course and at the "19th Hole." When he and Nancy moved to their new home in Covenant Woods in Mechanicsville, VA eight years ago, he quickly found great golf friendships there as well.

The family thanks the nursing team and staff at Covenant Woods, especially Avia, Faye, Melissa and Rhonda, for their care and restorative good humor during the past two months. We also appreciate the support of Marquita and Ashley from Hospice of Virginia.

At his request, the family will celebrate his life privately. His steadfast love, tender heart, and practical good humor will be missed terribly. We would be so grateful to receive letters of your memories, adventures, or stories about Bob to lift us during this time. Please mail them to: The Pendergast Family, PO Box 564, Urbanna, VA 23175.