William Thomas Pearce Sr.

William Thomas Pearce Sr., known lovingly to family and friends as "Tommy," lived a life full of devotion, strength, laughter, and love. A proud veteran of the United States Army, Tommy carried with him a deep sense of loyalty, resilience, and pride that touched every part of his life and everyone fortunate enough to know him. Tommy 81 years old on May 20, 2026, the day he passed away. 

Tommy had a passion for living life to the fullest. He loved the fast life, treasured afternoons on the golf course, and could often be found watching his favorite westerns or spending time outdoors working in the yard. He had a special love for old cars and found great joy in restoring and caring for them, especially his beloved '49 Ford. Some of his happiest moments were spent side by side with his son, Chad, working on that car together and sharing stories, laughter, and memories that will live on forever. 

Family meant everything to Tommy. He loved attending antique car shows with his family and friends, creating memories that became treasured traditions. He delighted in swimming in the pool with his grandchildren and never missed the opportunity to spend time with those he loved most. Tommy especially enjoyed watching Yankees games with his daughter, Kelley, while enjoying her homemade chocolate chip banana bread, cookies, and other sweet treats that always made him smile. 

Tommy's greatest pride and deepest joy were his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He loved each of them fiercely and unconditionally. One of the things he was most looking forward to was seeing his grandson, Garrison, graduate from Wake Christian Academy on May 27 - a milestone he spoke of with pride and excitement. 

This August 21 would have marked 61 beautiful years of marriage to the love of his life, Terry Harvell Pearce. Together they built a family grounded in love, dedication, and enduring commitment. 

Tommy fought a hard and courageous battle with cancer and dementia. Through every challenge, he continued to show strength, determination, and the deep love he carried for his family. His perseverance and spirit remained an inspiration to those around him. 

Tommy leaves behind his devoted wife, Terry Harvell Pearce; his son, William Thomas "Chad" Pearce Jr., and Chad's wife, Cathy H. Pearce; his daughter, Kelley Maurice Pearce-Cottle, and her husband, Donald E. Cottle, II; his grandchildren, Cassie P. Sauls and her husband, Christopher Sauls, Corey Thomas Pearce, William "Garrison" Pearce, Gianna-Hope Pearce Cottle, and Lori Alessandra "Ali" Cottle; and his beloved great-grandchildren, Kayleigh Sauls, Abigail Sauls, and Andrew Sauls. He is also survived by his sister, Virginia "Ginny" DeWeese, and her husband, Houston DeWeese. 

He was preceded in death by his beloved grandson, Richard "Garrett" Horne; his parents, William Womack Pearce and Olean Pollard Pearce; his sisters, Louise Welker, Runell Frady, and Gloria Bradley; and his brother, Maynard Pearce. 

Tommy will be remembered for his strong spirit, his generous heart, his unwavering love for his family, and the countless moments of laughter and joy he shared with those around him. Though he will be deeply missed, the legacy of love, memories, and traditions he created will continue for generations to come. 

Instead of sending flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in his memory to Alzheimer's research (Alzheimer's Association /donate) or the Cancer Foundation (https://donate.cancer.org/).

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, June 14th, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Bryan Lee Funeral Home located at 300 E. McIver St. Angier, NC 27501.

A service of Bryan-Lee Funeral Home, Angier. Online condolences may be made at www.bryan-leefuneralhome.com