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Michael Pearson Obituary
The family will receive friends from 1 until 2 pm Monday, June 10 at the Wilson Chapel of Hankins & Whittington Funeral Service, 5301 Albemarle Road. A Memorial Service will begin at 2 pm.
A native of Jacksonville, FL, Dr. Pearson served his country in the US Army during the Vietnam War. He received his Doctorate from Florida State University in 1973 and taught Sociology at Virginia Polytechnic Institute from 1973 to 1977. From 1977 to present, he taught at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where he was past faculty president and co-founder and active teacher in the honors program. He was a dedicated and loving husband, father and teacher.
Survivors include his wife of 35 years, Sharon Pearson of Charlotte; two sons, Chad Pearson and his wife, April of Wilmington and Jonathan Pearson of Charlotte; his mother, Frances Pearson of Burlington; a brother, Richard Wand and his wife, Phyllis of Princeton, NJ; a sister, Priscilla Starling and her husband, Don of Burlington; and a granddaughter, Megan Elizabeth Pearson.
Memorials may be made to the Michael Pearson Education Fund, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, U.N.C.C., 9201 University City Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28223.
Arrangements are by the Wilson Chapel of Hankins & Whittington Funeral Service, 5301 Albemarle Road, 704-568-2106.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Pearson
Sponsored by an anonymous donor.
Tripp Family
June 4, 2013
In loving memory of a very special friend. We miss you and wish you were still here with us.
Andy Whiddon
April 10, 2013
Sharon – I was looking for Mike via the internet and came across his obituary. I am extremely sorrowful of his death. Mike was my best friend for many years; he exposed me to many challenging thoughts and encouraged me to dig deeper concerning my beliefs about life. I wrote an essay about Mike and myself I believe you will find interesting. Please email me at [email protected] so I can send it to you.
In Christ,
Andy Whiddon
December 17, 2012
Condolences to Professor Pearson's family. He was my advisor my first year at UNCC, 1983/84. He was very kind and helpful.
Robert Muhammad
June 13, 2002
Dr. Pearson (never got used to calling him Mike)had a profound impact on me. I enjoyed not only his lectures but also spending time in his office taking in his knowledge, wisdom and understanding of various issues.
I can certainly say that I am a better person for having known Mike Pearson.
I will certainly miss him when I return to UNC-Charlotte to pursue my graduate degree.
Peace.
Michael Whaley
June 11, 2002
Mike was one of the kindest people I have ever known. As I was growing up, it was during our many talks that I was inspired to pursue a degree in sociology. He was always eager to talk with me about my books, courses and papers and provided endless encouragement while I was in school and after I graduated. I am truly grateful for having had the opportunity to know Mike for so many years. I have lost a second father and a dear friend.
I see you in my dreams
And I wonder if you're looking
down at me
And smiling right now
And I wanna know if it's true
When he looks at me
Won't you tell me
Does he realize he came down here
And he took you too soon?
-Hootie
All my love,
Mike
Rocky Ratteree
June 11, 2002
I have lost a teacher, mentor and friend. Mike Pearson was the human heart of the University for me, and a friend of justice. My deepest condolences to Sharon and the family. I will remember him always.
Kevin Cohen
June 10, 2002
My condolences to the Pearson family. I considered Dr. Pearson my role model and I will greatly miss him. Dr. Pearson was a great educator and friend. I will think of you often.
Deborah Bosley
June 10, 2002
My condolences to your family, Mike. I will miss our walking-into-Fretwell talks. You always gave me a new perspective, a new way to think about issues and concerns. You were always ready with a quick witticism, or insightful comment. I will miss you!
Paula Smithka, Ph.D.
June 10, 2002
I will always remember with fondness Mike Pearson's hearty laughter. He was an important part of many a philosophy department gathering during my tenure as an undergraduate student in philosophy at UNCC during the 1980's. He was a close friend and colleague of my undergraduate mentor, Bill Gay, and I consider myself lucky to have made the acquaintance of such a wonderful person. His laughter, jovial personality, and academic scholarship will be greatly missed. My heartfelt condolences go to Sharon and his family.
Micah Gaddy
June 10, 2002
My Sociology Advisor and Mentor was a great encouragement and motivator to help me obtain my B.A. in Sociology with double minors in African American Studies and Religious Studies. A great professor, teacher, and friend. Dr. Pearson will be greatly missed!
kathleen yancey
June 10, 2002
Michael Pearson, one of the smartest, funniest, kindest and most generous people I have known. My teaching is better because of you; my life as well.
Michael, you left us too soon, too fast, gone--with no chance for us tell you what you mean to us, how much you mean to us.
I miss you and will think of you often.
Joyce & Tom Anderson
June 9, 2002
We will remember you with love dear friend.
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