Grace Nadine Pearson

Grace Nadine Pearson, age 99, of Hot Springs, Arkansas, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, January 24, 2026.

Grace was born on October 29, 1926, at home in Furlow, Arkansas, to Eva and Eugene Waddell. Determined from a young age and deeply patriotic, she worked during World War Il at a munitions factory in Jacksonville, Arkansas. Though under the legal working age, Grace was resolute in her desire to help America win the war; her brother, a line manager, helped her secure the position.

Following the war, Grace began a remarkable 36-year career with Southwestern Bell Telephone Company. She started as a board operator, advanced to executive secretary, and ultimately served as the manager of the Traffic Department- a testament to her work ethic, intelligence, and leadership. In her leisure time she loved to travel even going on to visit all 50 states with her husband.

Grace is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 54 years, J. B. Pearson, as well as her three brothers and four sisters.

She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Ken and Diana Pearson, Taylor Reavis (Kevin), Zachary Pearson, and Anna-Faith Pearson. Grace often said her greatest achievement was her immediate and extended family. Though she was the youngest of her siblings, she was consistently relied upon for her wisdom, counsel, and steady guidance.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 7, at 10 a.m. at Caruth-Hale Funeral Home, Section Line Road, Hot Springs, Arkansas. Graveside burial will follow privately for the immediate family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Grace's two favorite charities: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and Boys Town, Omaha, Nebraska.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Grace's four devoted caregivers over the past four years; Tracie, Haley, Sherrie, and Dezaray, and to the compassionate staff of Elite HomeCare and Hospice, whose dedication allowed Grace to remain safe and comfortable at home.

Ninety-nine years is long road. Grace walked it with integrity, grace, and strong ethical conviction - values she faithfully passed to her family