Charles Dale Pearson

Charles Dale Pearson, 84, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2026, in Tulsa, surrounded by the comfort of those who loved him. Charles was born on July 6, 1941, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, to George Anderson Pearson and Betty Elizabeth (Capehart) Pearson. A lifelong resident of the area, he built a life defined by hard work, quiet strength, and a deep connection to the land as a farmer. He was a man who valued simple things, family, faith, and the satisfaction of an honest day’s work. Charles attended Webbers Falls Schools and went on a baseball scholarship to University of Oklahoma. Originally, he had hoped to go OSU to play baseball, but OU offered him a scholarship first with OSU offering shortly after he signed. Because he was a man of his word, he kept his commitment to OU and became a devoted Sooner fan. In addition, Henry Iba, told Charles that if he’d walk on to play basketball at OSU, he’d give him a scholarship the next year, but Charles declined. Following college, he played semiprofessional baseball for the Cardinals organization for a few years before returning to Webbers Falls to help with the family farm. He shared a devoted marriage with his wife, Janice “Jan” (Dunning) Pearson, who remains to cherish his memory. Together, they built a family that was the center of Charles’ world. He is lovingly remembered by his children: Valarie Carter and husband Brian of Bixby; Connie Pearson of Tulsa; and Natalie Leeds and husband Jon of Muskogee. He was a proud grandfather to Jenna, Blake, Eli, Britt and special granddaughter Ella Wilson, who brought him great joy. Charles is also survived by his siblings: Lucy Randolph and husband Larry of Sallisaw; Shirley Shropshire and her husband Bruce of Muskogee; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Elizabeth Pearson; his brothers Don, Wayne, and Billy Ray Pearson; his sisters Modean Cannon and Lola Faye Pearson; and two infant children, Georgie and Kenneth, both of whom died shortly after birth. Charles will be remembered for his steady presence, his strong work ethic, and the quiet way he showed his love to those around him. He leaves behind a legacy of family, resilience, and values that will continue through generations. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at Muskogee First Baptist Church. Interment will take place prior to the service 10:00 a.m. at Greenhill Cemetery. Family will greet friends during visitation on Tuesday evening, April 28, 2026 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Cornerstone Funeral Home, 1830 N. York St. Muskogee, OK. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Baptist Children’s Home.

Charles Dale Pearson

July 6, 1941 - April 26, 2026