Max Lee Pendleton

Reverend Max L. Pendleton, 93, of Belmont, North Carolina, passed away on May 14, 2026. Born on December 10, 1932, in Shelby, North Carolina, Max lived a life defined by faith, service, and a warm spirit that touched countless people across the communities he called home.

Max grew up in Shelby, North Carolina where he attended Fallston High School and became a standout basketball player. As a member of the celebrated "Flying Five", he led his team to championship victories, earning memories he carried with pride throughout his life. After high school, Max answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Army, where he was stationed in Germany. Max built a life alongside his beloved wife, Virginia B. Pendleton. The two shared a remarkable 72 years of marriage, a union rooted in love, devotion, and mutual faith. Max and Virginia had one son, Randy M. Pendleton, who they were extremely proud of. Beyond his family life, Max was an avid golfer with considerable skill on the course, often returning home to proudly announce an eagle on his score card, or on truly memorable days, a hole in one.

Max was known for his fun-loving personality and playful sense of humor. He enjoyed teasing those closest to him, always with warmth and affection. Yet when it came to matters of faith and his calling as a pastor, he carried a seriousness of conviction that inspired all that knew him. His deep commitment to his community was recognized when he was honored as 2014 Man of the Year in Mount Holly, North Carolina.

Of all his accomplishments, none meant more to Reverend Pendleton than the church, Catawba Heights Baptist. He dedicated over 30 years to pastoring his church, guiding it through seasons of extraordinary growth that required the congregation to build larger sanctuaries twice. While he took great pride in watching the church flourish, he always said that his greatest accomplishments were the lives he won to the Lord. When it comes to matters of faith, his playful demeanor gave way to a profound seriousness and sincerity that touched countless souls. May he now rest in the eternal peace of his Lord and Savior, hearing the words he lived his life to earn; "Well done, thy good and faithful servant."

Max was preceded in death by his mother, Bessie Q. Pendleton, his father, John W. Pendleton, his beloved wife, Virginia B. Pendleton, and his son, Randy M. Pendleton. He is survived by his cousin/adopted daughter, Jennifer B. Jones, along with many whose lives were forever changed by his ministries and friendship.

A private graveside service was held for Reverend Pendleton on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at Hillcrest Gardens Cemetery in Mount Holly, North Carolina. There will be a public Celebration of Life Service for Reverend Pendleton on Sunday, June 7, 2026 at 3:00pm at Catawba Heights Baptist Church in Belmont, North Carolina.

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