Partridge was born in Independence, Missouri, and was less than a year old when the Latter-day Saints were driven out of that place.

He later moved to Farmington, Utah, where he ran Amasa M. Lyman's (the husband of one of his sister's) farm.

In 1864, Partridge moved to Fillmore, Utah, where he was called to serve as bishop in the Church.

In 1877, he became a counselor to Ira N. Hinckley in the presidency of the Millard Stake which was headquartered in Fillmore.

Partridge then moved to Provo so his children could study at Brigham Young Academy.