Dr. John Pearson, 84, of Apex passed away at his home on Saturday, January 9, 2010 after a long illness. Dr. Pearson, who was known as “Pete”, was born in Durham, NC on January 5, 1926 to John Amos and Virginia Williams Pearson.

Dr. Pearson joined the US Navy at the age of 17 and served with the Mediterranean fleet during World War II from 1944 to 1946.

After the war, he graduated from UNC Chapel Hill and then obtained his medical degree from Duke University. After medical school, he interned in Maryland and then joined the Air Force, where he continued his training while being stationed in Texas.

Upon discharge, he returned to Apex, NC where he established his medical practice.

Early in his career, Dr. Pearson delivered the first set of triplets to be born in Wake County.

For many years, Dr. Pearson was one of two physicians in Apex and served his patients faithfully as a true family doctor for over 35 years. He was a lifelong Tarheel fan and an avid boater and fisherman.

He is survived by his devoted wife Lydia; children: Diane Gill of Wilmington, NC, John Kent Pearson, Jr. of Lake Oswego, OR, and Sarah Ann Rives of Youngsville, NC; step children: Kathryn Smith of Fort Mill, SC, and Michael Smith of Apex, NC, and seven grandchildren.

A memorial service celebrating his life and home going was held at the Apex United Methodist Church on Wednesday, January 13, 2010. A reception followed the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Wake County. Online condolences may be made to www.apexfuneral.com.