Arles W. Pease

Arles W. Pease, 94, a devoted husband, proud father, Korean War veteran, aviator, and longtime Eastman employee, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 28, 2026, surrounded by his family. His life was defined by courage, loyalty, and a steady strength that shaped everyone who knew him.

Arles was working for Eastman Chemical Company when the Korean War began. With the sense of duty that marked his generation, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving honorably in artillery and military surveying. Eastman pledged to hold his position until he returned, and in a gesture of deep respect for his service, they restored him to the very job he had left when he came home. His military years demanded precision, discipline, and calm under pressure. He carried those qualities throughout his life, and he used them not only in his own service but also to assist other soldiers. Arles helped fellow veterans navigate the complex systems, paperwork, and red tape required to receive proper care and support. Many men found their way to the help they needed because Arles quietly stood beside them and guided them through the process.

Arles spent decades working in the Eastman lab, contributing faithfully to the company and the Kingsport community. He was present during the Eastman explosion that rocked Kingsport, a moment forever etched into local memory. In the chaos of that day, Arles ran toward danger, helping pull men from the rubble and doing everything he could to save lives. His instinctive bravery reflected the same courage he had shown in wartime—quiet, decisive, and selfless. While working at Eastman, Arles discovered a passion that would shape the second half of his life: flying airplanes. What began as a hobby quickly became a calling. He became a skilled pilot, then a flight instructor, training and mentoring new pilots with patience, precision, and a deep love for aviation.

After retiring from Eastman, Arles turned his passion into a full time profession, flying for King Pharmaceuticals. His years in the air were among the most fulfilling of his life, combining technical skill, calm judgment, and the joy he found in mastering the skies.

Arles lived with a deep sense of responsibility. He believed in hard work, in doing things the right way, and in protecting the people and the home he loved. His independence was fierce, his work ethic unwavering, and his loyalty to his family unshakeable. He carried himself with the quiet confidence of a man who knew who he was and what he stood for. He raised daughters who honored him, cared for him, and stood by him through every season of life. Their devotion in his later years reflected the love, stability, and strength he had given them from the beginning. Arles leaves behind a legacy of resilience, courage, and quiet generosity—qualities that will continue to live on in the family who loved him. He was a long-time, devoted member of Ketron Memorial ,Methodist Church.

Arles was preceded in death by his parents, James and Nannie Pease; and brothers, James Clifford and Thurman Pease.

He is survived by his wife of 75 years, Nancy “Louise” Pease; daughters, Althea Holland (Philip), and Lesa Ezekiel (Derrick); grandchildren, Brad Rader (Stacey), Hailey Ezekiel (Trae), and Faith Ezekiel-Wilder (Brian), and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A graveside service will take place at 3pm on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at Holston View Cemetery with Pastor Tim Adkins officiating.

Arles lived a long, determined life marked by service, sacrifice, and steadfastness. His family now entrusts him to God’s mercy with gratitude for the man he was and the legacy he leaves behind.

May he rest in peace, and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.