Thomas Deane Pearse

1941 - 2023

Thomas Deane Pearse
May 31, 1941 - January 18, 2023
Rougemont, North Carolina - Thomas Deane Pearse, 81 of Rougemont, NC died on Wednesday, January 18th, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He is preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Richard and Harriet Pearse of Durham, NC; and his brother, Robert Pearse of Greensboro, NC.
Tom is survived by his devoted wife of 33 years, Sharon Joyce Pearse; his three children; Elizabeth Davenport (Chad) of Alexandria, VA, Mary Hallam Pearse of Athens, GA and Phillip Pearse of Wilmington, NC. He is also survived by his sisters; Rebecca Jones and Cissy Pearse; two grandchildren he adored; Caroline and Ellie Davenport; along with his niece and nephew.
Tom served in the Marine Corps and always said it was the "best job I ever had". For the remainder of his career, he traveled as an optical sales representative. He found true joy in his work and his customers who called him their friend.
Tom was an avid outdoorsman and spent many years hunting, fishing, and birdwatching. He was fondly called, "Birddog" a name he acquired because he had so many dogs, he liked to say he once tried to claim them as dependents. He was an excellent marksman, and gunsmith who also loved fly tying and making knives before becoming disabled.
Tom will always be remembered as a loving, humorous, and generous soul who had a special place in his heart for all animals and people in need.
The family would like to especially thank Jacqueline Miles, Helen Price and Tracy Diggs of Amedisys Home Health and Hospice who lovingly cared for him at home, Pat Wilkins, a dear friend who cared for him weekly and Dr. John Anderson of Oxford, NC who gave him a lifetime of care and friendship.
Contributions can be made in lieu of flowers to the Alzheimer's Association 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601 and Amedisys Hospice. Condolences may be sent to www.brooksandwhite.com.
A Memorial Service will be held in the spring.