William Pearson

William “Lafayette” Pearson was born March 12, 1929 to the late Butler Pearson and Daisy Stevenson Pearson, in Winnsboro, South Carolina.  He moved to Connecticut where he had several hard working jobs, including brick laying, the DMV and Fafnir Bearing Company for over 30 years. He met his beautiful wife Priscilla while working at the brick yard in Berlin, CT and they married on November 25, 1950.  They then moved on to New Britain, CT where they raised all 6 of their children and have been married for over 68 years.

William was such a kind soul. Always did for others and provided for his family. His grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren meant the world to him. His wife Priscilla, even more so wanted for nothing. He was the absolute definition of a strong family man and loving husband; He cooked and even went out to play numbers for his wife. His sweet potato pies were like none you’ve ever tasted before.

He was also famous for his hats. From baseball caps to newsboy caps and Kangols. William loved the Blues. One of his favorite singers was B.B. King and he loved comedy. His favorite comedians were Moms Mabley, Red Foxx and Flip Wilson. One many occasions, you could find him in the living room right in his comfy recliner watching Sanford and Sons or old westerns.

William was predeceased by his mother Daisy S. Pearson, father Butler Pearson; John, Ernest, and James Pearson; sisters Robbie S. Grier, Maurice S. Stevenson and Mary E. Pearson Frazier.  He is survived by his sister Bernice Pearson Milling of Winnsboro, SC; his wife of 68 years Priscilla Pearson of New Britain; six children William Pearson Jr., of New Britain, Ernest Pearson (Elaine) of Columbia, SC, Glenn Pearson of Hartford, Eugene Pearson of New Britain, Sharmaine Pearson of New Britain, and Grave Pearson (Albert) of New Britain; 13 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.