Edmund Pendleton, Jr., 91, of Wytheville, Virginia, died on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. Born in Staunton, Virginia, on November 15, 1934, Edmund grew up in Wytheville and graduated from the first class of George Wythe High School in 1952. He spent most of his life in Wytheville, where he raised his family and remained deeply connected to the community he loved.

Edmund was known for his unwavering integrity, quiet generosity, and deep respect for others. Throughout the years, his children were often stopped by people eager to share stories of how Edmund had taken extra time, made a call, offered guidance, or stepped in to help. These stories were always new to the family, as Edmund never sought recognition. Helping others was simply who he was.

At George Wythe High School, Edmund was active in football, baseball, basketball, tennis, and extracurricular clubs, and proudly served as Class President, a role he cherished throughout his life. He was the first of many Pendletons of his generation to attend Virginia Military Institute, continuing a family tradition of military education and service. At VMI, he embraced the cadet ethos, rising to Company Commander and serving as President of the American Society of Engineers in his senior year, while earning distinguished military student honors.

After graduating from VMI in 1956 with a degree in civil engineering, Edmund returned as an instructor in the engineering department. He also served as a technical advisor for the 1958 film Mardi Gras. He earned a master’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Missouri in 1959 and served in the U.S. Army Reserves for 25 years, retiring as a Colonel in 1982.

Edmund returned to Wytheville in 1959 to join Pendleton Construction Corporation, where he ultimately became President and Chairman of the Board. He played a key role in building early sections of Virginia’s interstate highway system, including I-81 in the Shenandoah Valley. Later, he moved to South Carolina to serve as a consultant for Pioneer Asphalt Paving, which was later acquired by Vulcan Materials. For the next decade, Edmund managed Vulcan’s five asphalt plants and paving operations throughout upstate South Carolina, before choosing to retire in his beloved hometown of Wytheville.

On July 22, 1961, Edmund married Elizabeth “Beth” Stuart Massey, the love of his life. Their 64-year marriage was marked by deep affection, partnership and mutual admiration. Edmund was Beth’s greatest supporter and often marveled at her talent and creativity as an artist, taking great joy in her work and accomplishments. Together, they raised two sons and a daughter, and family remained Edmund’s greatest pride.

Edmund cherished the natural world and loved being outdoors—hiking, canoeing, and simply spending time in nature. He loved music and dancing, reading, and caring for the many family pets that naturally followed him everywhere. He also remained deeply engaged in community service, serving on the vestry of St. John’s Episcopal Church, the board of Wytheville Community College and the Virginia Roadbuilders Association, and past President of the Virginia Asphalt Association.

One of his proudest community contributions was Pendleton Construction’s donation of land and development of Pendleton Field at George Wythe High School. He was also active in the VMI Alumni Association and mentored many cadets, especially those from southwest Virginia.

Edmund was preceded in death by his parents, Amelia Deekens and Edmund Pendleton; his sister, Catherine Pendleton Caspole; and his brothers, Felton and Frank Pendleton. He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, John and Jill Pendleton of Roanoke.

He is also survived by his beloved wife, Beth; his children, Edmund Stuart (Laura Harris Pendleton), William (Sue Hester Pendleton), and Elizabeth (Jack Igelman); and his six grandchildren: Edmund Harris Pendleton, Margaret Elizabeth Pendleton, Wyatt Hester Pendleton, Isabel Massey Pendleton, Henry Stuart Igelman, and Jonah Pendleton Igelman.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Edmund’s devoted caregivers, Brenda Bias, Teresa Corvin, and Debbie Hall, for their loving care and to Wythe Hospice of Southwestern Virginia for their compassion and guidance during his final days.

A visitation will be held December 26 from 4:00–6:00 p.m. at Grubb Funeral Home in Wytheville. A memorial service will be held December 27 at 2:00 p.m. at St. John’s Episcopal Church, with burial at West End Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Episcopal Church or the Open-Door Café. Expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.grubbfuneralhome.com

Grubb Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.