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Monday, October 26, 2026
9:00 - 11:00 am (Eastern time)
Monday, October 26, 2026
Starts at 12:00 pm (Eastern time)
Ronald B. Pearson, lovingly known as Ron, of Saunderstown, Rhode Island, formerly of Lincoln, Rhode Island, where he lived for many years, passed away on October 19, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
He was the son of the late Arthur Pearson and Gladys (Knowlton) Pearson. He was the beloved husband of the late Mary (Barry) Pearson, his wife of over 45 years. He was previously married to Joan A (Lane) Gordon.
Ron proudly served in the United States Navy aboard the Submarine USS Jallao. Following his Military service, he continued his education at the University of Rhode Island, earning both an associate degree and a master’s degree.
During his years at the University of Rhode Island, Ron became a brother of Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE), where he formed friendships that grew into a lifelong brotherhood. The men he met there became family, and he maintained those treasured relationships for decades. Through fishing trips, gatherings, shared stories and countless memories, those friendships became an enduring and deeply meaningful part of his life. Ron loved these men as his brothers, and the bond they shared was one he cherished beyond words; their brotherhood was more than a college connection; it was a family of friendship, loyalty and one that stayed with him throughout his life.
For more than 35 years, Ron owned and operated Pearson’s Express, dedicating himself to building a business through hard work and perseverance. Pearsons Express was more than a business; it became an important part of his family’s story. Ron employed his children and relatives, creating opportunities for them to work alongside him and share in something he had built. Through the business, he brought family together, creating shared experiences and memories that would last a lifetime.
Ron was a generous, hardworking man who loved his children deeply. Family was central to his life, and the bonds he built across generations remain among his most meaningful legacies. His love for family was reflected in the relationships he nurtured and the generations who will continue to carry his memory forward.
He leaves behind his loving family, including his children, Michael Pearson (Kathy); Emily Murphy (Daniel) with whom he made his home. William Murphy (Karen); Susan Isabella (Robert); Shannon Bessette (Robert Dion); Mary Lima (Anibal); Faith Fontainie; and Barry Murphy (Aileen). His Legacy continues through his 26 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren, who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.
Ron was predeceased by his daughters, Katheen Sanbento and Susan Pearson, who was who was previously married to Glenn A Ahlborg and JeƯrey Lathem; his son Philip A Murphy: his sons-in-law, Charles Bessette and Michael Fontaine; and his siblings Barbara Turner and Arthur Pearson.
Ron served his country, pursued his education, built a business through decades of hard work, treasured friendships that became family and loved his family deeply. His greatest accomplishment was the legacy of love he leaves behind.
Ron will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered and forever cherished by all who knew him.
Fair winds and following seas, Ron. Your watch is over, but your legacy sails on in all those who love you.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend VISITING HOURS on Monday, October 26, 2026, from 9:00-11:00 a.m. at NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory-SOUTH COUNTY CHAPEL, 1111 Boston Neck Road (Route 1A), Narragansett, Rhode Island.
A graveside service with Military Honors will follow at 12:00 p.m. at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Exeter, Rhode Island.
In keeping with Ron’s wishes, in lieu of flowers, he asks you to make time to take someone you love to lunch or dinner. Make time to sit together, share a meal, tell stories, laugh and enjoy one another’s company. It is a simple but meaningful way to honor Ron and remember that some of life’s greatest gifts are the moments we share with those we love.
For those wishing to make a charitable contribution in his memory, donations may be made to HopeHealth Hospice, whose compassionate care and kindness meant so much to Ron and his family during his final days.
Nardolillo Funeral Home - South County Chapel
RI Veterans' Memorial Cemetery
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