Obituary of Olive Netta Nicolson Pemberton

Well known Texas artist and Fort Worth native Olive Nicolson Pemberton, died peacefully at her home, surrounded by loved ones. She was 102.

Born June 25, 1920, Olive Nicholson Pemberton was a noted Fort Worth artist, and an original member of The Fort Worth Circle, the prestigious artist’s association of the 1950’s. As one of its last surviving members, Olive’s extensive body of work is considered collectable, with patrons throughout the United States and with one of her pieces owned by The Dallas Museum of Fine Art.

After attending Polytechnic High School, Olive and her sister were dancers in the original Casa Manana during The Texas Centennial from 1936-1939. From there, Olive went to New York and continued to dance in noted Broadway musicals, including Pal Joey starring Gene Kelly, in which she was the last surviving, original cast member.

Upon returning to Fort Worth, Olive married her beloved husband Clyde D. Pemberton Jr., where they enjoyed many happy years together until his death in 2015.

Preceded in death by her parents, George and Alice Nicolson, and sister, Janice Nicolson Holmes, Olive is survived by her daughter, Bonnie Pemberton Baker, son-in-law Kipp Baker; granddaughter, Kristin Baker-Seawell and husband, Graeme; great-grandchildren, Clyde and Vivian; nieces, Niki Kantzios and Cary Pemberton; and nephews, William and Richard Pemberton.

Her last art exhibit in 2021, which she attended at the age of 101 and was entitled A Century of Beauty: The Art of Olive Pemberton is lovingly dedicated to her memory and will serve as a most treasured, living celebration of her life by family and friends. In addition, a private interment will be held at the Greenwood Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the North Texas Humane Society or local animal rescue group of your choice.

The family wishes to thank care givers Wanda Love, Cynthia Hall, Nona Roberts, and Angelica Riba for making the last years of Olive’s life peaceful, dignified and so very contented. You are angels, one and all.