James Howard Pearson

James Howard Pearson, 77, of the Salem Community, Morganton, entered into the gates of Heaven Sunday, December 20th, 2020 after a period of declining health. Howard was born July 21, 1943 to the late Lewis E. Pearson, Sr. and Brunie Murray Pearson. A man of multiple talents, he was self-employed in a variety of businesses throughout his life. A true entrepreneurial spirit, his businesses included upholstery, construction, property owner/management, tanning salon owner, and retail owner. He had a love of old cars, especially his 1949 Willis Jeepster, and enjoyed playing pool. Howard was a member of Burkemont Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Phifer "Doc" Pearson and Lewis E. Pearson, Jr.; as well as his son-in-law Tony Hamilton.

Surviving him are his wife, Tammy Cook Pearson of the home; children, Beverly Pearson Hamilton of Georgia, Greg Pearson and wife, Myschell, and Kylea Pearson Mace and husband, Josh, all of Morganton; grandchildren, Patrick Grindstaff (Anastasia), Matthew Grindstaff, Erin Grindstaff, Logan Pearson, and Bexlee Mace; siblings, Annie Roper (Vernon) and Kathy Carswell; sisters-in-law, Shirley Pearson and Diann Pearson; and a number of in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family.

The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m., Wednesday, December 23, 2020 at Burkemont Baptist Church.  The funeral will follow in the church at 2 p.m. with Rev. Dr. Eddy Bunton officiating.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Pallbearers will be Logan Pearson, Patrick Grindstaff, Josh Mace, Todd Pearson, Chad Michaels, and Ed Sellers. Honorary Pallbearer will be Isaac Watson.

Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice & Palliative Care, 1721 Enon Rd, Valdese, N.C. 28690.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.