Benjamin Franklin Pearson

Benjamin Franklin Pearson, Jr. (Frank), 90, of Norfolk, Va. died July 7, 2012. Born in Winston Salem, North Carolina, he was the son of the late B.F. Pearson, Sr., and Hessie Pearson, and step-son of the late Helen Pearson. He was also preceded in death by his son, B.F. Pearson, III (Biff) as well as 2 sisters and 2 brothers. Frank spent 36 years with Sears, retiring in 1985 as Security and Safety Manager. Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 62 years, Sarah; his daughter, Karen Pearson and her partner Dr. Edward George; daughter-in-law Wanda Crocker Pearson; grandchildren Benjamin and Alexandra. He will also be missed by extended family and many friends. He served as a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division in WWII. He earned the Bronze Star and several other medals and ribbons for valor. He also served as an honor guard for Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower at the general's office door in the I.G. Farben Building in Frankfurt, Germany. While Frank was in the European Theater of Operations, he won the middleweight boxing championship for the allied forces in Europe in 1945, and he was on the US forces championship football team in 1945. Later, he enjoyed playing golf for many years. Frank and Sarah lived in Lakeland, Fl. for 20 years before returning to Norfolk in 2009 due to Frank's failing health. They remain members of First Presbyterian Church of Lakeland, Fl. A private memorial service is planned. Memorial donations may be made to the local food bank or a charity of your choice. Condolences may be offered online to the family at www.woodlawngroup.com.