Dr. J. Randall "Randy" Pearce

Morristown - Dr. J. Randall "Randy" Pearce, DDS age 69, of Morristown, Tennessee passed away December 25th from complications of Covid. Randy grew up in the Rocky Hill area of Knoxville and was a "We're so Fine, Class of 1969" graduate of Bearden High School. During his years in high school, he enjoyed being a drummer for the band, The Spectors. He enlisted in the US Navy during Vietnam and served as a nuclear reactor operator on the USS Francis Scott Key submarine. He would continue to serve in the US Naval Reserves after being honorably discharged from active duty. He would later retire as a Commander. He graduated with a Bachelor's of Science degree from the University of Tennessee - Knoxville and University of Tennessee Health Science School - Memphis where he obtained his Doctorate of Dental Surgery. He started his general dentistry private practice in Morristown where his patients became and remained beloved friends for over thirty years. He became a forensic odontologist and helped train law enforcement officers in criminal techniques at the Forensic Anthropology Center and the National Forensic Academy. He was honored to work with Dr. William Bass, the faculty and students at University of Tennessee - Knoxville. As part of the Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Team (DMORT), he served at the World Trade Center after the catastrophe of 9/11. He is survived by his wife, Jane, his daughter, Kimberly Peterson, son in law, Greg, and his granddaughters, Fiona and Tilly Stapleton. HIs grand daughters meant the world to him and he was continuously doting on them. Dr. Pearce was a beloved figure in Morristown, famous for his halloween costumes and decorations, his practice of serenading his patients with songs from the 1960s, and his never-ending generosity, kindness and compassion. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date when it is safe to gather. In lieu of flowers, a gift to the Forensic Anthropology Center fund at UT would be most appreciated. Give securely online at giving.utk.edu or mail checks payable to UT Foundation/DDHR to 1525 University Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37921. Please put "In Memory of Dr. J. Randall Pearce" on the check.