James "JD" Donalson Pearce, 93

James "JD" Donalson Pearce, 93, of Hendersonville quietly passed away on Friday, Dec. 6, 2013, at the Elizabeth House.

He was born in Atlanta on Dec. 4, 1920, to the late Henry and Lorna Pearce. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Jean; and his son Bruce Pearce.

Jim's early years were typical, Boy Scouts, athletics and work. His drive for education led him to Georgia Tech where he was enrolled in the School of Engineering. When World War II broke out, Jim volunteered for the "Silent Service" submarines. With his engineering background, "JD" was assigned to the USS Sea Cat, a fleet submarine based in Pearl Harbor as the Engineering Officer. He completed three combat cruises to the Far East. Following the war, Jim returned to Georgia Tech and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering.

Prior to his retirement, Jim was a quick learner and with his engaging personality he was successful in numerous positions which included the manufacturing industry, oil distribution, as well as a stock broker and constructing custom homes.

Jim led a full life; he enjoyed his family, friends, picnics, lake trips and Angel flights with his son, Jimmy. He enjoyed playing countless rounds of golf with his wife, Jean. He was instrumental in the formation of Boy Scout Troop 616. He was an active Rotarian for more than 40 years in the Hendersonville Club. He had a wonderful sense of humor and had an endless repertoire of jokes. He wrote many poems about life, family, pets and events. He will be missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his daughter, Dianne Carson and her husband, Charles of Simpsonville, S.C.; his two sons, Bill Pearce and his wife, Jody of Hendersonville, Jimmy Pearce and his wife, Gail of Hendersonville; nine grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2013, at Thos. Shepherd's Church Street Chapel.

The family would like to thank the great staff at Pine Park and Four Seasons Hospice for the care they gave Jim during his last few months.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Pine Park's Employee Christmas Fund, 2601 Chimney Rock Road, Hendersonville, NC 28792.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com.

Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center is in charge of arrangements.