Weather
St. Louis Centennial Christian Church Mourns Beloved Member Patricia Pendleton After Fatal Tornado Strike
St. Louis, MO — The Centennial Christian Church and the broader St. Louis community are mourning the loss of Patricia Pendleton, a dedicated church member who was tragically killed when the historic church collapsed during Friday’s severe weather outbreak.
Patricia’s husband, Harry Pendleton, confirmed her passing and gave permission to share her name and photos, honoring her life and legacy. “She did everything at that church but sleep there,” Harry said, reflecting on his wife’s unwavering commitment to the congregation.
Patricia had arrived at the church by 11:00 a.m. that morning to help serve lunch to those in need—something she did with heartfelt dedication.
As the storm intensified, Patricia and two others sought shelter inside the church building.
When a tornado swept through the area, the church—located near Fountain and Aubert Avenues in the Fountain Park neighborhood—collapsed, trapping the three individuals.
Emergency responders arrived quickly and were able to rescue the other two, who were transported to a nearby hospital. Tragically, Patricia Pendleton was pronounced dead at the scene.
Patricia’s death marks one of several lives lost across the St. Louis region during the tornado outbreak, which caused widespread destruction, including power outages and structural failures.
The Centennial Christian Church, a long-standing and historic fixture of the community, suffered catastrophic damage as a result of the storm.
City officials and structural engineers are currently investigating the collapse. Early assessments suggest that high winds and compromised structural integrity contributed to the building’s failure.
The area surrounding the church remains closed as the investigation and cleanup efforts continue.
As news of Patricia’s death spread, heartfelt tributes poured in from friends, family, and church members. She is being remembered not only for her service, but for the kindness, leadership, and warmth she brought to every corner of the congregation.
Her passing has left a profound void in the lives of many who knew and loved her.
We extend our deepest condolences to the Pendleton family and the Centennial Christian Church community. Patricia’s legacy of service and compassion will not be forgotten.
Let us all take a moment to offer a prayer for Patricia Pendleton, her family, and those who continue to recover from this devastating storm.
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — Emergency responders are working multiple rescue calls after a confirmed tornado touched down west of Bloomington and moved directly toward the city, prompting urgent shelter warnings across the region.
The National Weather Service issued a Tornado Warning for Bloomington, Ellettsville, and Clear Creek until 7:30 p.m. EST, describing the situation as particularly dangerous.
The tornado was confirmed on the ground approximately eight miles west of Bloomington and moving east at an estimated 40 miles per hour.
Authorities report that multiple homes have sustained significant damage, with early indications that several individuals may be trapped inside residences impacted by the storm.
Emergency crews are actively conducting search and rescue operations in affected neighborhoods.
Communities directly in the projected path included Bloomington, Ellettsville, the campus of Indiana University Bloomington, Solsberry, and Whitehall.
Meteorologists warned that the storm was capable of producing destructive winds and hail up to the size of ping pong balls. Officials emphasized that the tornado posed a serious threat to life and property.
Residents in the warned area were urged to seek shelter immediately — preferably in a basement or on the lowest level of a sturdy structure, inside an interior room away from windows.
Authorities stressed not to delay action while waiting for visual confirmation of the tornado.
Emergency management officials continue to monitor the storm’s track and assess damage. Additional updates are expected as response efforts continue and more information becomes available.