Joe C. Pearson Sr.

Joe Cody Pearson, Sr. was born in Memphis, TN, on September 22, 1932, to the late Albert and Hattie Lee Pearson, the second of four children. He departed this life on November 29, 2023, at Methodist University Hospital. Affectionately known as “Bubba,” Joe began his Christian walk at St. John Baptist Church on January 22, 1967. He later joined St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church under the pastorate of the late Rev. H.H. Harper. Here he remained for over fifty (50) years, where he continued his service under the current Pastor, Rev. Patrick L. Lewis, Sr. He was Chief Usher and President of all three (3) Usher Boards, a Trustee, active in the Mission Ministry; and, an ardent Sunday School member. “Bro. Joe”, as he was known to the members, continued in service during his failing health and remained faithful in his stewardship until his death. In June of 1951, Joe graduated from the historic Booker T. Washington High School in Memphis, TN. On August 7, 1951, he enlisted in the United States Army. Following his Basic Training, Joe was assigned to the Berlin Brigade in Berlin, Germany, where he was a member of the Transportation Corps. During his tour of duty, he rose to the rank of Specialist and was a military truck driver during the Korean War. Upon his return from military duty, Joe's civilian career was as a nursing aide at the Veterans Administration (VA) Hospital, where he worked until he officially retired. He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, JoAnn Marie Pearson, and brothers and sisters. He leaves to cherish his memories his sons, Joe C. Pearson, Jr (Mary), Austin, TX; James S. Pearson, Memphis, TN; Gerald A. Pearson (Valerie), Memphis, TN; step-daughters, Vanessa Hawkins, Memphis, TN; and one sister, Hattie Lee Sykes, Lakewood, WA. Fourteen grandchildren: Erica (Anthony), Allen, TX; Joe III, Austin, TX; Steven (Akela), Weatherford, TX; David (Kathy), Odessa, TX; William (Sandi), Portland, OR; Michael, Austin, TX; Brian, Savannah, GA; Dion, Dallas, TX; Adrian, Elko, NV; Maronda (Marcus), VA; Kesha, Memphis, TN; Chutney ( Delvin, Sr), Nashville, TN; Gerald Jr, Memphis, TN; and Yolanda Washington (Vaughn), Memphis, TN. Twenty great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends to celebrate his life.

Joe C. Pearson Sr.

September 22, 1932 - November 29, 2023