Joseph William Pearce, Sr.

Joseph William Pearce, Sr., 78, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at Duke University Medical Center. A native of Franklin County, he was born September 7, 1947 to the late Joseph Pearce and Elsie Mae Bowen and was the husband of nearly 59 years to Dorothy Reel Pearce of the home.

Joseph was a proud US Army Veteran, serving his country during the Vietnam War and was of the Methodist faith. His professional career spanned many years in the restaurant industry, where he managed notable chains such as Golden Corral and K&W. Joseph found joy in many things such as fishing, playing golf or watching the old Westerns like Bonanza and Gunsmoke. Music also played a significant role in his life, particularly his love for oldies and country music. Joseph was an enthusiastic sports fan, passionately supporting UNC Tarheel basketball, the Carolina Panthers, and the Dallas Cowboys.

Survivors include his wife, Dorothy; daughter, Kimberly Ann Oliver (Shawn); son, Joseph William Pearce, Jr.; grandchildren, Kathleen Stewart (Jacob), Hannah Oliver, Hunter Oliver; great grandson, Calan Stewart; brothers, Billy Pearce (Ruth), Wayne Pearce and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

A service to celebrate Joseph’s life will be held at 2:00PM on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at Lowe Funeral Home Chapel by Pastor Ben Williams with the burial to follow at Magnolia Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12:30 – 1:45 prior to the service at the funeral home and other times at the home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Methodist Home for Children, 1041 Washington Street Raleigh, NC 27605-1259.

To watch the service and to send condolences online, please visit www.lowefuneralhome.com.