Richard Charles Pearse Sr.

Richard Charles Pearse, Sr., known affectionately to all as just Richard, made his grand exit from the stage of life on December 7, 2024, in Hemet, CA, taking his final bow to the sound of the universe's applause. He was a sprightly 86 years young, and natural causes couldn't resist his charm any longer, finally coaxing him behind the curtain after a long and laughter-filled performance.
Born on July 6, 1938, in the bustling city of Detroit, Michigan, Richard was never one to shy away from the spotlight. From the get-go, he was all about building a life with as much precision and care as the cars that rolled off the Motor City's assembly lines. He took the term 'early bird' to a whole new level by enlisting in the US Marines at the tender age of 17. Camp Pendleton knew him as the guy who could make even the most stoic drill sergeant crack a smile.
After a four-year stint of serving his country with honor and probably a few well-timed jokes, Richard traded in his uniform for a tool belt, becoming a master of the carpentry arts for a whopping 70 years. His buildings stood as strong and true as his sense of humor, and just like his jokes, they were built to last.
Richard's family was his pride and joy, and boy, did he have a lineup! His beloved wife, Mercy Pearse, stood by his side, probably rolling her eyes affectionately at each punchline. His legacy includes his daughter, Brandy Weiss of Simi Valley, CA; his son, Richard Pearse, II of Riverside, CA; and he tipped his hat to his late son, Jeffrey Pearse, who surely inherited his dad's knack for laughter. His two brothers, three sisters, six grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren were all part of his captive audience, each one playing a part in his lifelong sketch.
While Richard was a loving and caring father, he ran a tight ship at home, thanks to his Marine training. His kids knew that 'Semper Fi' also meant 'always faithful' to family, fun, and the occasional harmless prank. His children were brought up with the perfect blend of discipline and delight, ensuring they could take a joke just as well as they could dish one out.
Known for his sense of humor, Richard was the family's go-to guy for a good laugh or a light-hearted prank. He could turn a frown upside down before you could say 'whoopie cushion,' and his practical jokes were the stuff of legend. Friends and family often found themselves on the receiving end of his playful antics, which were always delivered with a twinkle in his eye and a chuckle in his throat.
Describing Richard is easy: loving, kind, funny. Not necessarily in that order, but always in ample supply. His humor was as infectious as a viral cat video, and his heart was as big as his punchlines. Laughter was his legacy, and he left this world a funnier place than he found it.
So, as we bid farewell to Richard Charles Pearse, Sr., let's not mourn the dimming of the lights but celebrate the joy he brought to every room he entered. He may have exited stage left, but the echoes of his laughter will resonate in the hearts of those who knew him forever. Curtain down, standing ovation, Richardyou were the showstopper to the very end.
Services
Graveside Service
Friday
February 7, 2025
1:00 PM
Riverside National Cemetery
22495 Van Buren Blvd.
Riverside, CA 92518 To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Richard, please visit our Tree Store.