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- The Beckley Register-Herlad, Online Edition, 8 July 2002
After enjoying a full and wonderful 75th birthday with family and friends on July 5th, Melvin Harold Pendry celebrated his heavenly birthday late that same night, passing away at home from heart failure. Born in Ostego in 1927 to the late Parthena and Lacy Pendry, Harold lived the past 44 years at 102 Randolph Street in Beckley. He excelled at Sophia Grade School and Mark Twain High School, in McAlphin, before entering the Navy during World War II. Following discharge from the Navy, Harold worked 42 years at the McAlpin and East Gulf mines. During his career, Harold was a member of UMWA Local 5955 and served as the president and financial secretary of the Local for many years. He also became President of the Coal Miner's Political Action Committee (COMPAC) and, in that capacity, testified before the United States Congress on behalf of coal miners' rights and benefits. He also volunteered as a member of the Raleigh County American Red Cross for several years. Harold was a born-again Christian who loved the Lord. Along with his wife, he was very active in church activities at the First Church of God on Robert C. Byrd Drive in Beckley. He served as chairman of the Board of Directors until no longer physically able to do so. He excelled in several bowling leagues at Leisure Lanes and Acculanes, often competing in national tournaments throughout the country. He also enjoyed golf and traveling. As anyone who knew Harold could readily tell, his greatest love and proudest accomplishment was his family, especially his grandchildren. Harold is survived by his wife of 48 years, Joann Jessup Pendry; son, Rodney Harold and wife Crystal and grandson William, age 2, of Brick, NJ; son, Kerwin Barry Pendry and wife Joy and grandson William Blatt, age 17, of Sandersville, GA; son, Dale LaRay Pendry and wife Patty and grandson Greyson, age 11, and granddaughter Audra, age 6, of Valencia, Calif.; and sister, Jacqueline Meadows of Crab Orchard. Harold was cremated and his memorial service will be held 7 p.m. today at the First Church of God at 2809 Robert C. Byrd Drive, Beckley with the Rev. Vondie Cook officiating. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations of sympathy may be made to the First Church of God Building Fund. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to service. Arrangements by Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home, Beckley.
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1927 - 2002 (74 years)
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