Devon Kobi Pearson

With profound gratitude and deep love, we honor the life of Devon Kobi Pearson, a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend, who departed this life on Monday, March 24, 2025. His presence was a blessing to all who knew him, and his legacy will continue to shine through the countless lives he touched.

Born to Susan Cottle and Leon Pearson at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami-Dade County, Devon was raised in the heart of Coconut Grove, Florida, where his journey of greatness began. He was the light of his mother's eye and they are surely kindred spirits. A gifted and fearless basketball player, he earned the title of "Mr. Miami," dominating the courts as the leading basketball player in Miami-Dade. Nicknamed "Jumping Jit," he was dunking by sixth grade, wowing crowds with his incredible athleticism.

Von, as we affectionately called him, is cherished by too many friends to name from St. Albans to Charles R Drew Elementary & Middle school to Miami Northwestern High, "Home of the Mighty Bulls," as he would always say. His relentless dedication and talent earned him a full athletic scholarship to Southern Methodist University, where he continued to excel in Dallas, TX.

It was at SMU that Devon met his wife and best friend, Jaquai Wade-Pearson. Together, they built a love rooted in friendship, trust, and unwavering support, embarking on their journey as a family while earning their degrees. For 20 beautiful years, Devon kept his heart open, proving to be the most protective, supportive, and devoted husband-a true partner in every sense.

Devon's love knew no bounds, especially when it came to his two beloved sons, Devon Kobi Pearson Il and Dean Makai Pearson. He found immense joy in playing, pranking, and teaching them life's most valuable lessons. He got a kick out of measuring Kobi's shoulders against his own as he watched his namesake grow even taller than him. He sent Dean to sleep every night with a "jump-hug," catching his son in his arms as Dean flew off the bed and into his arms. His laugh-unique and infectious-was a sound of pure joy, filling every space with warmth.

A hardworking and compassionate man, Devon dedicated his professional years to Promise House and the City of Dallas Public Works, always leaving a lasting impact wherever he went. Public Works was hard work but he was light to every crew he worked with so it never was a burdening work day with Von on the team. Prior to this, Von fulfilled his destiny as a professional basketball player for 4 years in Uruguay as well as several teams in Mexico. But above all, his greatest accomplishments were the love he gave and the family he built. He shared a special bond with his in-laws, Joe Wade and Terry Strickland. Joe will miss their calls about basketball and attending all of Kobi's games together.

Devon is survived by his devoted wife, Jaquai Wade Pearson; his cherished sons, Devon Kobi Pearson Il and Dean Makai Pearson; his loving parents, Susan Cottle and Leon Pearson, Sr.; his aunt who nurtured his basketball skills, Tina Cottle; and his dear siblings, Kelsy Cottle, Leon Pearson, Jr., and twin sisters Toi (Gilles) & Latoya Pearson, Ashley (Devon) Weaver, Sheldon Wade, and Tanisha (Chance) Finister. Devon leaves behind a host of wonderful nieces and nephews: Samariah, Adriaunna, Elleri, Angel, Christopher, Malachi, Princess, Jada, Kai, Mya, Logan, Lucas and Aliyah. He also leaves behind cousins who are like siblings as well- Tiara Cottle, Andrea (Sidney) Antrobus, Carlton Darling, Danel Cottle, Jaiya, RemiRose, IvyPearl, Zy'aire, Zy' Anna.

Though his time with us was too short, his spirit will forever live on in the laughter of his sons, the love of his wife, and the hearts of all who knew him.

May he rest in eternal peace, forever soaring.