Ruth Pearson, Lifelong RI Resident, Passes Away at 91

Ruth Emmeline Pearson (Sayer), 91, of Charlestown, passed away unexpectedly on May 26, 2018, after a happy life of loving and being loved by many.

She was the wife of the late Calvin Ellwood Pearson. Born in Providence, she was the daughter of the late Lillian Beatrice (McCall) and Raymond Vincent Sayer.

Ruth had been a volunteer for the Johnny Cake Center of Westerly and Seniors Helping Others and was an active member of Dunn’s Corner Community Church Presbyterian. She was a proudly independent and giving woman who enjoyed crossword puzzles, crocheting, sewing, crafting, gardening, and church activities. With her many local friends and family, she avidly played cards and word games, remaining sharp until the end.

She was the beloved mother of Janet P. Smith (Donald Smith Jr.) of Charlestown, David C. Pearson (Kathy Ellis) of Wakefield, Karen R. Papa (Thomas Papa) of Charlestown, and Thomas R. Pearson (Linda Bouyssou) of Narragansett. She is also survived by nine grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren, and was predeceased by her grandson David C. Pearson Jr.

She leaves a brother, George E. Sayer (Nancy A. Williams) of Florida, and a sister, Carolyn B. Ainsworth (E. John Ainsworth, deceased) of California. Ruth will be missed and fondly remembered by several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at Dunn’s Corner Community Church at 5:30 p.m. June 14. In lieu of flowers, gifts in her memory may be made to Dunn’s Corner Community Church Presbyterian, 221 Post Road, Westerly, RI 02891, or to Brown University, Anatomy Research Fund, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Box G-B204, Providence, RI 02912.