Barbara M. Pearson
Barbara M. Pearson, 67, passed away at Good Shepherd Hospice on November 27, 2025, following a fourteen-month battle with breast cancer. She was born on April 27, 1958, in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, and later moved to Florida, eventually settling in Lakeland, where she spent nearly 50 years enjoying the Sunshine State.
Barbara was preceded in death by her father, Fred McCullough, and her brother, Scott McCullough. She is survived by her loving husband of 32 years, Kelly Pearson; brothers Randy McCullough (Francine) of Happy Valley, PA, and Gary McCullough (Brenda) of DuBois, PA; brother-in-law Scott (Lyn) Pearson of Ellenton, FL; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Barbara began her career at Alpha Resins and its subsidiary, Glassteel, where she eventually became the distribution manager of a 30,000-square-foot facility, overseeing the shipment of fiberglass building materials throughout the Southeast. Known for her incredible energy and work ethic, she also worked as a daytime bartender at Talk of the Town and later helped open Bennigan’s. After the warehouse closed, Barbara began a 21-year career with GEICO Insurance Company, where she rose to the level of supervisor. She retired in 2020, having mentored hundreds of young adults along the way.
Barbara was a great example in everything she attempted. She was a talented cook, baker, crafter, and devoted dog mom. Organized and dedicated in all she did, she also had a natural flair for style and design. Above all, she was a wonderful partner, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held at Heath Funeral Chapel, on January 12, 2026, with visitation beginning at 4:00 p.m. and the funeral service following at 5:00 p.m. A reception will be held following the service in the Heath Funeral Chapel Tribute Center. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be considered to the SPCA of Lakeland, Florida.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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