(September 5, 1927 – December 6, 2013)
Theo Lytel Pendleton age 86 of St. George, Utah, passed away peacefully on December 6th, 2013 surrounded by his wife, his children and many of his grandchildren. He was born September 5, 1927 to Edna Turnbeaugh and Lorraine Pendleton in St. George, Utah. He and his sister Alene Pendleton Adams were raised by their Grandmother Margie Turnbeaugh in Washington, Utah and he always held a special place in his heart for her. He attended schools in Washington City and St. George.
Theo was the beloved husband of Harriet Raburn, caring father of Vicki (Doug) Terry, Bradley Theo Pendleton (who preceded him in death) Becky (Paul) Olsen, Todd (Tyalee) Pendleton, cherished grandfather of Trevor and Sarah Terry, Landon Terry, Derek and Claire Terry, Jessica and Tyler Anderson, Jen Terry, Justin and Teryn Olsen, Ryan Olsen, Tanner Olsen (currently serving in the Oregon Portland Mission), Braden Olsen, Trent Pendleton, Tierra Pendleton and Tyce Pendleton and Great Grandfather to Katelynd Terry, James Anderson, Lincoln Terry, Brooks Anderson, Sophie Terry and Thomas Terry.
Theo served his country in the Merchant Marines and in the Navy as a Machinist’s Mate. He met and married his sweetheart of 59 years, Harriet Elizabeth Raburn, in Norfolk Virginia on July 20th, 1954. Their marriage was later solemnized in the St. George Temple. They lived and raised their family in St. George. He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, serving in various positions.
As a businessman he and his brother-in-law, Klein Adams, started Adams and Pendleton Auto Body which became Adams and Pendleton Chevrolet and Cadillac. Later he formed Sunland Chevrolet and Cadillac. His motto was: “I’d rather push a Chevy than drive a Ford”. He was proud to be an original partner in the Ashley Furniture Store in St. George with his son and son-in-law, Todd and Paul. Theo was also a successful real estate developer, including the community of Diamond Valley, and watched proudly as that community grew and thrived.
He served faithfully as a volunteer on the St. George Fire Department for over twenty five years, answering calls all hours of the day and night. He also served as a member of the St. George Lions Club.
Theo enjoyed many activities: making new friends, traveling across beautiful America, cruising the grand oceans, bird watching, fishing, building homes, hunting, the Utah Jazz, and gardening, but his greatest joy was his family. He always commented if he knew how much fun grandchildren were he would have had them first. He loved spending time with them anytime and anyplace. It was often said he was so generous and made sure that everyone felt special.
Special thanks to Dr. Khoury, Dr. Klein, Dr. Moon, Nurse Taylor, Nurse Ryan and the rest of the caring and compassionate staff of the Intensive Care Unit at Dixie Regional Medical Center. Also a special thanks to the staff at Sunset InstaCare. Our family sincerely appreciates all of their medical skills and gentle care.
Funeral Services
- A viewing will be held at Spilsbury Mortuary, Thursday, Dec. 12, from 6-7:30 p.m. and Friday at the North Valley View LDS Chapel, 820 N. Valley View Dr. St. George from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Funeral Services to follow at 11 a.m.
- Interment in the St. George City Cemetery.
Arrangements under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, St. George, UT 435-673-2454. Family and friends are invited to sign the guest book at www.spilsburymortuary.com.