Obituary of Esther W. Pearson

Memphis, Tenn. Esther W. Pearson, 93, formerly of Woodstock, CT, died March 5, 2005. She was the beloved wife of 53 years of Rev. Lawrence E. Pearson, married August 12, 1939, he died in 1992. She was born December 8, 1911 in Corona, NY. Daughter of the late Charles A. and Hilma (Johnson) Berntson. She was a graduate of Mary Washington College in Fredericksburg, VA and received her Master’s degree in Education from National Teachers College in Evanston, ILL. She was a second grade teacher and school principal in Betsy Ross School in Prospect Heights, ILL for 20 years. Esther enjoyed traveling. After high school she toured Europe and Sweden with sister, Hulda, and in 1983 she took a memorable road trip across the United States with her sisters Hulda and Ruth, and her brother Leonard. She also accompanied her husband, who was a pastor/conference speaker and for some years a representative of the Moody Bible Institute, throughout the United States and Canada. They also visited South America, Puerto Rico and in retirement, Panama where Larry had been stationed while serving in the Army. The Pearson’s moved to Woodstock in 1988 and Esther lived there following her husband’s death until 2001; they had also made their home in Lake Nebagamon, Wisconsin. Esther was a wonderfully hospitable woman, an effective speaker, and a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. She leaves a son: Peter Pearson and his wife Laura of Woodstock; a daughter: Sheryl Kellow of Memphis, TN; a brother: Leonard Berntson and his wife Helen of Franklin, RI formerly of Woodstock; a cousin: Florence Dodge of Woodstock; four grand children: Chelsea; Ryan; Richard; Christine; four great grand children, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by sisters: Hulda Johnson; Mildred Hencken; Alma Johnson; Ruth Sidebotham; brothers: Emil and Helmar Berntson. Esther will be remembered for her faith, her love and her laughter. A memorial service will be held Saturday March 12th at 12:00 NOON in the Evangelical Covenant Church, Child Hill Road, Woodstock. There are no calling hours. Burial at the convenience of the family in Elmvale Cemetery, Woodstock. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her memory to the Evangelical Covenant Church, Child Hill Road, Woodstock, CT 06281.