OBITUARY

Donald Leroy Pendegraft of Cahokia Heights, IL departed this life in Chesterfield, MO on Thursday, January 15, 2026, having reached the age of seventy-six years, five months and fourteen days. Donald was born in St. Clair, MO on August 1, 1949, son of Earl Herbert Pendegraft and Pauline Pendegraft nee Bailey. On August 11, 1970 he was united in marriage to Hellena Ruth Hammett and one daughter came to bless this union.

Donald is survived by his daughter, Tracy Brickeen and husband, Douglas, Sr., of Cahokia Heights, IL; by three sisters, Ruth Burlage, Juanita Bardot and Marie Barton, all of St. Clair, MO; by five grandchildren, Shevelle Pendegraft and significant other, Christopher Moore, of Belleville, IL, Douglas Brickeen, Jr. and fiancé, Hannah Brickeen, of Cahokia Heights, IL, Steven McAntire and girlfriend, Jae, of Cahokia Heights, IL, Jeremy McAntire and fiancé, Heather Chester of Cahokia Heights, IL and Cameron McDonald of Cahokia Heights, IL; by nine great-grandchildren, Casandra, Dacian, Atheena, Zayla, Oslynn, Marylynn, Sophia, Gage and Hunter, with Evander on the way; his sister-in-law, Bertha McAlpin; by other brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, great and great-great-nieces and nephews, cousins and many friends.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Pauline Pendegraft; by his wife, Hellena Pendegraft; and by his brothers, Daniel and Ronald Pendegraft.

Donald was raised in the Baptist faith and believed in the Lord as his Savior. During his working career he was employed by Control Devices, Bushers Corn Cob Pipe Company, Brown Shoe Company and Coca Cola. He enjoyed going fishing, hunting and camping. Donald also enjoyed sitting by the fire and drinking his cup of coffee. His grandchildren were his pride and joy and he cherished every moment spent with them and especially liked to “give them a hard time”. The love they shared and many precious memories they created together will be held dear in their hearts forever.

A kind and loving father, father-in-law, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, great and great-great-uncle, cousin and treasured friend, he will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM Monday, January 19, 2026 at Russell Colonial Funeral Home in St. Clair, MO with Rev. Raymond Laramore officiating. A private committal will take place at a later date. Memorials may be made to the family.