Philip D. Pearson, Jr., age 81, a longtime beloved Shelby educator, Christian, community member, organist, world traveler, and friend, passed away peacefully Monday afternoon, June 29, 2026.
Phil was born November 16, 1944 in Columbus, OH, the son of the late Madeline (Wilson) and Philip D. Pearson, Sr. Growing up in Westerville, he graduated from Westerville High School in 1962. His lifelong love of education, music, and serving the Lord was cultivated during his time at Otterbein College where he earned a bachelor’s degree in education with a minor in music. While at Otterbein, Phil played the organ at St. Matthew Espicopal Church of Westerville and was also active in the Evangelical United Brethren Church. It was following his graduation from Otterbein that he took his first teaching position in 1966 as a 9th grade teacher at Shelby Junior High School. Little did he know that his roots would become deeply planted not only in the schools, but in the Shelby community as a whole.
After five years at Shelby Junior High School, Mr. Pearson transferred to Shelby High School in 1971. Throughout his 46-year tenure at Shelby, he taught all high school grades in English and also taught Humanities. Across from his classroom at the end of the “T,” Mr. Pearson had the “Book Nook” which housed a collection of books separate from the library (most of which he self-funded) for students to increase their knowledge in literature and culture. Perhaps many students will remember him for his infamous Blue Book exams, extensive research papers, and rigorous college prep, while nearly all will remember him for his love of culture, his knowledge and wisdom of European history, and his inspirational ways to help students grow and learn.
To no surprise, continued education for himself was also a priority in his life of growth and learning. In 1981 he earned a master’s degree from Bowling Green State University and also studied at Ashland Theological Seminary, the University of Cincinnati College- Conservatory of Music (CCM), The Ohio State University, and Ohio Wesleyan University.
Outside of academics, Mr. Pearson was a staple of support for Shelby athletics and student life and involvement. He served as the high school football equipment manager (44 years), timer for basketball (52 years), and pole vault judge (50 years) in addition to getting the programs ready for home games and meets. A special moment for Phil was being the timer at the State Girls Basketball Tournament in 1990. Additionally, Mr. Pearson was the Academic Challenge advisor (41 years), junior class advisor (2 years), and senior class advisor (30 years).
It would be hard to reflect on the life of Phil Pearson without connecting him to travel. Traveling remained a steadfast and passionate hobby that Mr. Pearson shared with more student and adult groups than you can count. His tours took travelers all across the world to 50 countries and nearly every continent. Of course, he loved the travels himself, but he also loved sharing his love of world culture with others. Because of his vast knowledge of travel, he often served as an expert travel guide to others as they booked flights, train schedules, and itineraries for their upcoming voyages. While his favorite county to visit was Switzerland, he took guests to England, China, Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Egypt, Kenya, Canada, Guatemala, Central America, the Panama Canal, several Scandinavian countries, and many places throughout the United States. His travels provided once in a lifetime opportunity for many who joined him and unforgettable memories for all.
Phil was a deeply Christian man who used his talents as an organist to serve many church congregations in their liturgies. A proud member of the American Guild of Organists, Phil was the organist at the First Presbyterian Church in Shelby for 40 years and also served as their choir director for 6 years. Simultaneously, he was the organist at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Shelby- where he also was a member, and for the Shelby United Church of Christ. He also accompanied the Most Pure Heart of Mary children’s choir. A memory for many high school humanities class students was their field trip to Most Pure Heart of Mary where Mr. Pearson would play their grand organ for the class. The connection and respect he has with many former students correlated to being asked to play for their weddings and many community members’ funerals.
Phils knowledge and passion of the connection of local churches was exemplified through his services on the Shelby Council of Churches for 51 years- 25 of those as their President. While on the Council, he assisted with Meals on Wheels, oversaw the performance of Handel’s Messiah every other year, and was involved with their annual Crop Walk.
Although the life of Mr. Phillip D. Pearson will be honored and cherished in a variety of ways, his philanthropic vision is meant to last for generations to come. In 2018, Phil established a donor-advised fund at The Shelby Foundation, known as the Shelby Community Support Fund. Through this fund, he quietly and thoughtfully supported local organizations that mattered to him and to the community he loved. While everyone knew Phil for his kindness and generosity, he took great joy in being able to give anonymously through the Foundation. The Shelby Foundation honored Phil in 2021 with their prestigious Visionary Award which recognizes community members whose altruism, long-term vision, and ongoing drive have made a lasting impact on Shelby. Phil’s legacy of compassion and generosity will continue to make a difference in the lives of others for years to come.
Although a fall many years ago impacted his mobility, and Parkinson’s disease contributed to his diminished physical health, Phil’s mind remained incredibly sharp to the very end. Even in times when his speech was nearly mute, his brain remained at full capacity giving advice and expertise to the very end.
Mr. Pearson’s impact on students and adults has crossed multiple family generations and his legacy is respected and honored. He will remain a beloved member of the Shelby City Schools and Shelby community for generations to come.
Phil is survived by his brother and sister-in-law: Stephen and Carole Pearson of Plain City, OH and their children: Inga (Ted) Stimmel, Cory (David) Rasberry, and Quinn (Neal) Seaborn and their families; brother: Toby Pearson of San Antonio,TX and his family; stepsister and brother-in-law: Peggy and Jim Pye of SC and their family; sister-in-law: Nancy Marasek of Columbus and her family; and an incredible host of friends. In addition to his beloved parents, Phil was preceded in death by his stepmother: Georgianna Pearson; and his stepbrother: Thomas Marasek.
Family and friends are welcome on Monday, July 6, 2026 from 11 am-1pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby where funeral services will immediately follow at 1 pm. Fr. Daniel Orr will officiate the funeral with Pastors Lester Champer and James Robinson assisting. Burial will follow in Oakland Cemetery, Shelby.
For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to The Shelby Foundation to be added to Phil’s already established Shelby Community Support Fund.
Condolences may be left on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or their Facebook page.
Funeral Home: Penwell Funeral Home
Website: PenwellFuneralHome.com