Arthur L Pendleton

 Arthur L. Pendleton,Sr.

On Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at the blessed age of 95, Arthur L. Pendleton transitioned peacefully at his home in Oklahoma City. A man of deep faith, steady hands, and a heart filled with love, Arthur’s life was a testimony of God’s grace, the strength of family, and the dignity of honest work.

Born on June 21, 1930, in Davis, Oklahoma, to Enola Gentry and Bertrum Pendleton, Arthur was raised in his early years by his beloved grandfather, Bill “Papa Bill” Gentry, and nurtured by his great-grandmother, Roberta Jackson. From them, he inherited values of hard work, wisdom, and integrity that would guide his entire journey. “Papa Bill” affectionately called him Prince and taught him to hunt, fish, and live off the land—skills Arthur later shared proudly with his own children and grandchildren.

In 1943, Arthur and his mother moved to Oklahoma City, settling in the Riverside Addition known as “Southtown.” It was there, on 13th Street, that Arthur built his life, raised his family, and remained rooted for more than 70 years. He attended Douglass High School and at just 16 years old began working in shoe repair under Dave Fessler at Ziegler Shoe Services. Even when discrimination barred Black workers from certain tools and opportunities, Arthur’s spirit was unbreakable. With determination and the mentorship of Orville Pounds, a white veteran who became his lifelong friend, Arthur mastered the craft that would define his career.

Above all else, Arthur loved the Lord. He was a faithful servant at Cooks Chapel CME Church (later Sykes, and eventually Crossbridge), where he humbly served as both steward and trustee. He often reminded family and friends, “We have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God, so ask for forgiveness and do better the next day.” His faith was not only in his words, but in how he lived—with humility, compassion, and strength.

Arthur first married Marie Allen, and three children were born to this union. Later, he found his soulmate and lifelong partner in Charlesetta Morgan, with whom he shared 65 beautiful years of marriage and three more children. Together, they built a family grounded in love, faith, and resilience.

In 1962, Arthur stepped out in faith and courage, borrowing $1,000 against his life insurance policy to open Uptown Shoe Repair on NW 23rd Street—the first Black-owned business in the Uptown District. With unmatched craftsmanship and a quick wit, Arthur became known across the city as the man who could “save soles.” His clients included governors, legislators, ballet dancers, and medical professionals, but his shop was more than a business. It was a sanctuary of second chances. He employed community members who needed a way forward, training them in shoe repair and giving them the dignity of honest work. For his children and grandchildren, working beside him in the shop was not only a lesson in craftsmanship but in character.

Arthur lived fully outside his shop as well. He was an avid bowler, well-known at the Bryant Center, where he earned trophies and once bowled three perfect 300 games even after toe surgery. He loved politics, spirited conversation, and laughter that filled the room. His wisdom, faith, and humor were gifts to all who knew him.

Arthur’s long and full life was one of resilience, service, and love. He now joins the “cloud of witnesses” who went before him: his parents and grandparents, his devoted wife Charlesetta Morgan Pendleton, son Arthur Pendleton Jr., daughter Beverly Ann Pendleton-Reid, grandson Carl Sanders Jr., great-grandson Ryan Reid, great-granddaughter Elekta Liggins, his sisters and brothers, and many beloved cousins and relatives.

He leaves to cherish his memory: daughters Minerva F. Pendleton-Sanders, Vinita M. Pendleton-Morris, Doris A. Youngblood (Marq), Kristi E. Pendleton-Harrison (Chris), and Lisa Bullock; son Brian Pendleton; twenty-one grandchildren; forty-one great-grandchildren; thirty-four great-great-grandchildren; his sister Elnora Edwards; step-sister Linnie Jean Phillips; brothers Larry/Omar Muhammad (Jameelah) and Glenn Pendleton (Wilma Jean); along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and lifelong friends.

Arthur’s life is best remembered not only in the shoes he repaired but in the lives he touched, the opportunities he created, and the faith he demonstrated. His legacy is one of perseverance, craftsmanship, family devotion, and the enduring love of God.

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