JOHNNIE FREDDIE PEARSON
Oct. 3, 1918-Aug. 29, 2911
Johnnie Freddie Pearson was born in Harrells, N.C., Oct. 3, 1918, to the late Fred and Lucinda Fennell Pearson, and departed this life Aug. 29, 2011.
He was married to the late Naomi Whitehead Pearson for 48 years until her death in May 1989. To this union were born seven children.
As Deacon Pearson would often tell the story, God saw his mournful state and sent him a joy in the morning in the person of Sarah Idella Newkirk. They were married March 20, 1990, in Goldsboro, N.C., and cared one for the other as set forth in God's word till death did them part.
Deacon Pearson joined the United States Army at an early age, and served 20 years with an honorable discharge.
He then moved to Flint, Mich., and began working for General Motors Corp. until his retirement.
His past civic affiliations included Future Leaders of Flint, vice president of Baker Block Club and Military Retirees Club of Goldsboro.
He also enjoyed gardening, playing checkers and old cowboy movies.
Deacon Pearson was saved and received his deacon's license from Truelight Baptist Church under the pastorate of Marcellus Burkett.
Upon relocating to Goldsboro, he joined Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, serving faithfully for many years. While at Antioch, he served as deacon, led noon-day prayer and helped with the soup ministry to the sick and shut-in.
Upon uniting with Philadelphia Community Church in Goldsboro, N.C., in 2004, Deacon Pearson continued to be a faithful deacon and Sunday school student until his health failed in 2009.
In addition to his lovely wife, he leaves to cherish his memory six children, Jeanie (Herman) Christian of Mansfield, Texas, Jessie (Freddie) Darrough of Flint, Mich., Joyce Pearson of Flint, Mich., Johnnie (Chiquita) Pearson Jr. of Fort Washington, Md., Jerry A. Pearson of Flint, Mich., and James Pearson of Flint, Mich.; four stepchildren, Aletta (Rodger) Taylor, Ronald (Joyal) Newkirk of Goldsboro, N.C., Benita Hall of Norfolk, Va., and Byron Newkirk of Warner Robins, Ga.; a host of precious grandchildren, great-grandchildren; and a number of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
A service of remembrance will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. at Philadelphia Community Church.
A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.
The earthly consign for Deacon Pearson will be in Keathern Church Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of love and sympathy may be given directly to Deacon Pearson's loving and devoted wife.
Prestigious services are rendered by E.M. Matthews Funeral Home.
(Pd)
Published in Obituaries on September 2, 2011 1:48 PM