Dr. John Franklin Pearce

Dr. John Franklin Pearce, 92, passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 4, 2025 at Lanier Village Estates.

Funeral arrangements are scheduled for Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 1 PM, at the Memorial Park Funeral Home Chapel, Reverend Ron Grizzle will officiate. Visitation will be held the same day, May 7, 2025, at 12 PM until time of service, for the family and friends.

He was born on April 18, 1933, in Louisville, Kentucky, the son of John LeRoy and Beatrice C. Pearce. John graduated from Floyd High School in Nichols, South Carolina, and shortly after, on June 21, 1953, he married his high school sweetheart, Carolyn Small. Their wedding was officiated by his father, Reverend John Pearce. John and Carolyn shared 51 years of marriage before her passing on November 11, 2004. On December 18, 2005, John was blessed to find love again and married Ina Mae Cobb, who survives him.

He served in active duty with the United States Army from 1954 to 1957, working in Army Intelligence and continued his service in the U.S. Army Reserves until 1962. He was honorably discharged with the rank of First Lieutenant and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal in recognition of his service.

A lifelong scholar and educator, John earned his undergraduate degree from Furman University, followed by a master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania, and later, a doctorate from the University of Alabama. His academic career was marked by excellence and commitment to his students. He served as an intern and full professor at Clemson University and then went on to teach Economics for 25 years at North Georgia College & State University, where he inspired generations of students. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he received the Calloway Award in 1970 and Distinguished Professor Award in 1974.

John’s commitment to education was matched by his deep and enduring faith. A devoted Christian, he served as a Sunday School teacher for most of his adult life and was actively involved in youth ministry and the Baptist Student Union. He served faithfully as a Deacon at Dahlonega Baptist Church for many years and was a current member of Gainesville First Baptist Church, where he continued to teach Sunday School until his health no longer allowed.

In addition to his academic and spiritual contributions, John was a proud and active member of the Lions Club for over 50 years. He served in every major leadership role at the local, state, and international levels, including as International Director. His service to the Lions Club took him all over the world, where he promoted the organization's mission of sight conservation, humanitarian aid, and community service.

Beyond his many achievements, John found his greatest joy in time spent with family. He especially loved traveling and attending his grandchildren’s ballgames, performances, and school events, always showing up with pride and encouragement. A gifted musician, he enjoyed playing the dulcimer and delighted in performing in the Follies at Lanier Village Estates, where his sense of humor and showmanship shone through.

John is survived by his children: John Craven Pearce (Jan) and Joy Pearce Snider. He was a proud grandfather to John Lanier Pearce (Jama), Jana Pearce Mastrogiovanni (Nick), Justin Franklin Pearce, and Brandon Michael Snider (Anna Grace). His legacy continues through his nine great-grandchildren: Lanier Olsen-Pearce, June Olsen-Pearce, Leila Craft Mastrogiovanni, Peyton Elyse Pearce, Tallulah Rose Mastrogiovanni, John Lee Olsen Pearce,  Justin Parker Pearce, Micah Milo Mastrogiovanni, Grayson Scott Snider.

He is also survived by his brother, Phil Pearce, Durham, NC and sister-in-law Emily Small, Greenville, SC along with eleven nieces and nephews.

John Franklin Pearce was a distinguished scholar, a visionary leader, and a man of humble, servant-hearted faith. Whether in the classroom, the church, or around the family table, he led with wisdom, integrity, and compassion. His life was a reflection of Christ’s love—faithful in service, generous in spirit, and steadfast in purpose. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through his teaching, his ministry, and his unwavering devotion to family and community.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Lions Club of Dahlonega, Georgia, or to First Baptist Church of Gainesville, Georgia.

Memorial Park Funeral Home, 2030 Memorial Park Rd., Gainesville, Ga. 30504 is in charge of the arrangements.

Send online condolences to www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com