Charles "Steve" Pendergrass

Charles Steven Pendergrass (Steve)
April 21, 1951 – August 14, 2024

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Charles Steven Pendergrass, known to many as "Steve," on August 14th, 2024 at the age of 73. Steve was born on April 21st, 1951, in Huntingdon, TN, where he spent his childhood and formative years. After graduating from Huntingdon High School, he attended the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, earning a BS in Electrical Engineering. It was during his college years that Steve met his future wife, Jean.

Steve and Jean settled in Hendersonville, TN, where Steve began his career with South Central Bell. His work eventually led them to Birmingham, AL, where the company transitioned to Bellsouth, and Steve moved into an executive role. While residing in Birmingham, Steve achieved a Masters in Electrical Engineering from the University of Alabama.

Steve’s sharp mind and curiosity extended beyond his professional life. He was fascinated by gadgets, always eager to have the latest technology so he could figure out how it worked. While he was an engineer by trade, his love for learning had no boundaries.

A devoted family man, Steve loved his wife, Jean, with all his heart. Together, they had a daughter, Laura. The family moved one last time to Snellville, GA. Steve retired from Bellsouth around the time of its merger with AT&T in 2007 and spent his later years enjoying life at his own pace. He read voraciously, kept in touch with his friends, and was an avid fan of Tennessee Volunteers football.

Steve is preceded in death by his wife, Jean Pearson Pendergrass. He is survived by his daughter Laura Pendergrass Greco, her husband Tory Greco, his two granddaughters, Faye and Abby, his brother Keith Pendergrass, his sister in law Jo-Ellen, his niece Stephanie Smith (Josh), his nephew Brad Arnold (Amy), two great nieces, two great nephews, and many friends. Steve's kindness, joy, and generosity left an indelible mark on all of our lives, and we will miss him dearly.

A memorial will be held at the Christian Chapel Cemetery on August 24 at 10AM in a graveside service. Family and friends are invited to share memories of this remarkable man. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association in honor of Steve’s memory.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Charles "Steve" Pendergrass, please visit our floral store.