Russell Lee "RL" Pearson

On July 11, 2022, Russell Lee Pearson, 81, passed from this earth into the arms of Jesus. He was born on March 1, 1941 to parents, John Clyde and Gaynelle Pearson.

Russell (RL) served his Lord as a Sunday school teacher and a member of the choir at Missionary Ridge Baptist Church for many years and prior to that he served at Burkemont Baptist Church.

He wore many hats in his life including being a Master Blade Carver, a martial arts instructor, business owner, Tom’s snacks franchise owner, a real estate broker, interior design associate, and life insurance salesman and supervisor from which he retired in 2002.

He was an avid fisherman and hunter and enjoyed those activities with his step-daughter, Melissa, sons, grandsons, and his many friends. He loved the ocean and the mountains and he and Judy would take many trips there.

Left to cherish his memory, is his wife of twenty-four years, Judy Waters Pearson; his children, Rick Pearson, Terry Pearson Horton, James Pearson (Jane), and John Paul; as well as his step-daughters, Cindy Hall Jordan (Chris) and Melissa Hall Mathis (Dwight); and his brother, Jerry Pearson (Ruth). A special son-in-law, Harold Horton preceded him in death. He and Judy had a combined ten grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

Russell was a great husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather and will be missed by all.

Charities especially close to his heart were St. Jude Children’s Hospital and Compassion International. He and Judy have sponsored a child, (Javon) from the Philippians for many years.

Memorial services will be held 2:00 pm, Saturday, July 16, 2022 at Missionary Ridge Baptist Church with Rev. Darren Browning and Rev. Chris Dale officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Compassion International.

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