Steven Ray Pendleton

Steven Ray Pendleton, 61, of Salem, began his walk on the Streets of Glory on Thursday, November 29, 2012 while in the loving arms of his wife and children. Steve was a family man first and continually expressed unconditional love to his wife, children, and grandchildren. In his spare time, he enjoyed the outdoors, was a movie buff, and loved supporting sports in Salem. He was known for being outgoing, humorous, and an inspiration to his large group of special friends. He was the example of faith and courage, a simple man with a knack for making everyone laugh. He was a spiritual leader of his home teaching his family how to live and love. His star is now in Heaven, shining down bright on us. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sherman and Katherine Pendleton; son, Shannon Pendleton; brothers, Johnny Pendleton and Vincent Pendleton; and mother-in-law, Virginia Helvey Vass. His surviving family includes his wife of 35 years, Rhonda Pendleton; children, Melissa Pendleton Vest and husband, Tony, Chad Steven Pendleton and wife, Chris, and Derek Matthew Pendleton and wife, Brandi; grandsons, Jacob Daniel Hatfield and Zachary Steven Hatfield; granddaughters, Kelsen Myers Pendleton and Ansley Christine Pendleton; brother, Jack Pendleton and wife, Emily; sister, Kathy Chrisman and husband, Chris; brothers-in-law, Michael Helvey and wife, Diane, and Anthony Helvey; special nieces and nephews; and many dear friends. The family will receive friends on Monday, December 3, 2012 from 4 to 8 p.m. in the John M. Oakey & Son Chapel in Salem. A service celebrating Steves life will be held on Tuesday, December 4, 2012 at 3 p.m., also in the chapel. Interment will follow at Sherwood Memorial Park. Rev. Ken Nienke will officiate. An online guestbook is available at www.johnmoakey.com. The Pendleton family is being served by John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem, 540-389-5441.