Billy Pearson

Waynesville, Billy Lambert Pearson, 80, of l65 Thomas Park, died on Monday, January 14, 2008 at his residence. He was born in Spruce Pine and raised in Waynesville. Bill was a former resident of Bridgeton, NJ and Old Saybrook, CT returning to Waynesville in 1972. He was the son of the late Edward Miles and Nora Jean Stutts Pearson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepfather, William Albert Reeves, one sister, Sarah Ann Reeves Moody, and his wife of 60 years, Christine Underwood Pearson who passed away on March 7, 2007. He was also preceded in death by two infant brothers, Edward and Paul Leroy. Bill was a US Navy Veteran having served during World War II. Before and after his service in the Navy, he worked for the Waynesville Mountaineer. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion, Post 47 and was elected for five terms as the Commander. He was currently on the Board of Directors. In addition to his active role in the American Legion, he was a lifetime member of the VFW, Post 5202. He was the retired owner of Pearson Roofing Company, Inc. and was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Waynesville. He is survived by sons, Dennis Edward and wife, Joan Etta, of Boutiliers Point, Nova Scotia and Terry Lambert and wife, Patricia, of Old Saybrook, CT., daughter Cynthia Ann Turpin and husband, Philip of Sylva, sisters Mary Reeves Roper and Peggy Reeves Fugate of Waynesville. He is also survived by three grandchildren, Martha A. and Matthew A. Turpin, and Julian D. P. Pearson. He has one surviving uncle, Paul, 95, of Biscoe, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Bill's many friends enjoyed his charm, wit, and and sense of humor. He was especially caring to the less fortunate families in Haywood County and he participated in many fund raisers during the years to provide food, clothes, wood, and Christmas gifts for many. Bill was an avid reader and knowledgable about state, national, and international affairs. He enjoyed a lifetime of fishing, especially trips to the NC Outer Banks. In addition to his love of fishing, he was a Redskins fan. A talented craftsman, he created beautiful cabinets, tables, fishing knots as well as staying busy with his many other hobbies. During the past several years, family and friends admired his determination and fortitude as he and Chris confronted medical crises. Throughout the illnesses, he maintained a sense of purpose and pushed forward with heartfelt empathy, compassion, and love. While living in Conneticut during the 1960s, Bill won national awards through his employment with National Laboratories Division of Lehn and Fink Corporation. As Division Manager, he earned recognition in the company's Hall of Fame as the leading Division Manager in the Northeast Region. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, January 20, 2008, in the Waynesville Chapel of Wells Funeral Home with Rev. Rich Peoples officiating. Military rites will be conducted by American Legion Post 47 and VFW Post 5202. The family will receive friends from 12:30 until 2:00 p.m. on Sunday prior to the service. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 90 Stiles Road, Canton, NC 28716.

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