Hugh Nelson Pendleton III, Brandeis University Professor Emeritus of Physics

Of Plymouth, MA, formerly of Waltham MA, passed away peacefully at Brookdale Plymouth Beach Assisted Living Home on March 10, 2017 . Beloved husband of Sylvia (Fasick) Pendleton for 59 years, devoted father of Gail Pendleton of Plymouth and Geoffrey N. Pendleton and his wife Rhonda, proud grandfather of Shane N. Pendleton, all of Madison AL.

The son of Hugh N. Pendleton Jr. and Helen (Ware) Pendleton, Hugh was raised in Pittsburgh, PA, where he was graduated from Mt. Lebanon High School in 1952, and earned his undergraduate and graduate degrees at Carnegie Institute of Technology.

He joined the Brandeis University faculty in 1960, and went on to gain tenure and promotion to full professor. Hugh was a member of the Brandeis faculty for over four decades, until his retirement in 2003.

His research included significant contributions in quantum mechanics, particle physics, and supersymmetry.

Hugh was that special sort of scientist who combined esoteric research interests with a remarkable ability to make science understandable to non-scientists. As a member of the Physics Department, he re-designed the introductory physical sciences course. "Modern Concepts of Matter" which acquired the new nickname "Why is the Sky Blue?" The course met at Hugh's home, and the students were so deeply engaged that class sessions often ran over four hours. It was described by the students as one of the best courses they had taken.

Hugh also won the affection of his students and colleagues as a good-humored, caring professor, always willing to offer whatever assistance was needed. The chair of the Physics department recalls Hugh's unwavering kindness and notes that he was always happy to help out a young professor just starting out. That same generosity of spirit was evident when Hugh joined with other faculty and staff in establishing the Transitional Year Program at Brandeis.

Hugh also found time to render much service to the university. He served as chair of of the Faculty Senate in the 1970's and again in the 1990's , was parliamentarian to the Faculty Meeting, chaired his department, and was a member of countless committees. His most triumphant service came as coach to Brandeis's GE College Bowl Team in 1968. The Brandeis team won their matches for five weeks, retiring undefeated with the highest score in the game's history. Twenty-five years later, the 1968 team relived the experience at Reunion, in a contest against current Brandeis students (who emerged victorious). The coach of both teams was Hugh Pendleton.

Hugh is survived by two sisters, Mary Pendleton Marshall and her husband George of Newton, NH and Serena Pendleton Spellman and her husband Steve of Boulder, CO.
Funeral will be private. A memorial to celebrate Hugh's life is being planned for early summer. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association (alz.org) in his memory.