Dr. Barney C. Pendleton

Dr. Barney C. Pendleton, husband, beloved father, grandfather and friend passed away Wednesday, December 18th. During his 88 years, he celebrated life to the fullest. Barney, son of the late Barney C. and Hassie Pendleton, was born on February 17, 1925. He graduated from Dobyns Bennett High School in 1943. He then volunteered to join the U.S. Air Force. He was one of the first 15 people ever trained to be a Radar Bombardier and was a Second Lieutenant Bombardier Navigator on the B-17, B-24 and B-32 aircraft. He served from 1943-1946.

He attended East Tennessee State University and received his BS degree. In 1949, he attended the Northern Illinois College of Optometry where he received his Doctor of Optometry degree. He began his practice a year later in Kingsport, TN on Sullivan Street. In 1953, he purchased the late Dr. Patty's office on Center Street and then relocated to Wilcox Drive until 1990. For the last 23 years, Barney continued his practice with his dear friend Bob Boyles at Specs and Shades. He had a true passion for his profession and never retired.

For many years, Barney enjoyed golfing, hunting and was an avid skier. He was an active participant with his U.S. Military Pilots group, the "Quiet Birdmen", which he immensely enjoyed. He was a member of the Mason's and the Shriner's. He was also a member of First Broad Street United Methodist Church.

Barney had too many friends to name. He surrounded himself with a special group of friends fondly known as "The Wolf Laurel Howlers." They started their mornings together at the Jan Mar Restaurant over a cup of coffee and ended many nights at Rush Street Grill. Tuesday evenings were reserved for "Tuesday Night Supper Group" at Murphy's. They also had many special weekends together at Barney's cabin in the mountains of NC. Their friendship will be forever cherished.

He leaves behind Carolyn Adams Pendleton, his loving wife of 56 years; son David and wife Kim Pendleton, granddaughters Morgan and Taylor; his daughter Carol Ann Coker, granddaughters Hannah and Holly; also Daniel Haulbrook and Jessica Coker; and his brother-in-law Donny Adams and wife Helen.

The family wishes to express its heartfelt thanks to his special friends for their kindness and friendship shown to him in these last several years. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: Alzhiemers Association, 207 N. Boone St., Johnson City, TN 37605.

The memorial service will be Saturday, December 21st at First Broad Street United Methodist Church at 4 pm with Rev. Mickey Rainwater and Rev. Will Lauderback officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.