Michael Joe Pearson

SHELBY: At the ripe young age of 61, Mike Pearson decided to embark on the ultimate fishing trip in the sky. Born in Oconee County, SC, and signing off from Cleveland County, NC, Mike lived a life filled with laughter, love, and a little bit of fudge.

While he might not have been famous for any grand achievements, Mike was a legend in his own right. He could outfish anyone at the lake or the beach, and when it came to hunting deer, rabbit, or coon, he was the stealthy predator they warned you about. But above all else, Mike adored his grandbabies—his whole world revolved around them, and he gave his love to everyone, no matter what.

In the kitchen, Mike was known for his culinary prowess (or maybe just his sweet tooth), whipping up batches of his famous deer sausage balls and disappearing slices of chocolate pound cake, cheesecake filling, and fudge faster than you could say “seconds, please.”

Preceding him in the great beyond are his mother, Fannie Belle Smith, and his loyal dogs, Toby and Mama, who are surely wagging their tails with joy at the reunion.

Mike leaves behind his wife of 23 years, Jody Pearson, who somehow managed to keep up with his shenanigans; daughters Carly Pearson, Michelle Morrison, Ashley Brickzin and husband Jay, Brittany Slivicki and husband Ryan, and Cassie Katzdorn and husband Steven; his son, Jason Pearson and wife Ashley; and his brother, Darrel Pearson and wife Karen.

His legacy continues through his beloved grandbabies: Delilah, Aiden, Olivia, Paisley, Violet, Rayden, Scarlette, Chloe, and Andrew. They're likely to inherit his fishing rods and perhaps his knack for eating fudge.

Mike's pack of furry friends includes Rocco, Roxy, Daniel, Bean, Poncho, Violet, Lemon, Tinkerbell, Rudy, Junior, and Tripp. If dogs could weep, we’re sure theirs would be tears of bacon-flavored affection.

As we remember Mike, let's cherish our memories of him casting a line, sharing a laugh, and spreading love like butter on warm cornbread. He may be gone, but his spirit (and his recipes) will live on forever.

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