Rebecca Dodson (Peggy) Pearson, 85, died in her home on July 4. Born in Humboldt, TN. on November 3, 1924 to Rebecca Elder and George Day Dodson, Peggy was married for 61 years to Sam H. Pearson, Jr. A 1946 graduate of L.S.U., she received her master's degree in Education from the University of Memphis in 1975. Peggy was a career teacher who taught within the Memphis City School System for more than 24 years before retiring in 1985. Active in politics, education and community involvement, she was named President of the Memphis Education Association (1971-1972) and received the Outstanding Women's Award to Teachers in Politics (1975). She was a leader in the Tennessee and National Education Associations, Shelby County Retired Teacher's Association, and Tennessee and Shelby County Democratic Committees. Peggy's political leadership positions included co-chair for the Shelby County Steering Committee - McWherter for Governor, 1986; Shelby Co. Steering Committee - Gore for President, 1988; and co-chair Shelby County Steering Committee - Clinton for President, 1992. In addition, she served as a member of the YWCA Board of Directors, Nineteenth Century Club, Delta Delta Delta Sorority, Daughters of the American Revolution Ridge Trail Chapter and Christ United Methodist Church. Preceded in death by her brother, Dr. George D. Dodson, Jr. of Jackson, TN., Peggy is survived by her husband, Sam H. Pearson, and her daughters Elizabeth Pearson Willis and Rebecca Pearson Tuttle (husband, Dale) and four grandchildren Elizabeth Willis Quinn (husband, Stephen), Sallie Rebecca Willis, Melissa Pearson Tuttle and Rebecca Hederick Tuttle. She was an independent and active career woman with progressive political convictions and strong professional will. A wonderful example to family and friends, this genteel, Southern lady enjoyed more than anything spending time with her family, in particular her four grandchildren who she adored. She will be greatly missed. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 7 at 1 p.m. at Canale Funeral Directors with services to follow at 2 p.m. Burial will be at Elmwood Cemetery. The family requests that donations be made to Alzheimer's Day Services or The Ronald McDonald House. Canale Funeral Directors (Published in The Commercial Appeal on July 6, 2010)