Rutledge "Bud" Pearson, Jr. was born in Waco, Texas on August 07, 1955, to Rutledge Henry Pearson, Sr., and Mary Ann Pearson. He was the second child of three children; Patricia Pearson, the oldest and Roderick Pearson. He graduated from Andrew Jackson High School, McLennan Community College in Waco, Texas and Edward Waters College, Jacksonville, Florida. After many years of service, he officially retired from Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA).

As a long-term resident of Jacksonville, Florida, he was a deeply respected member of our community. He was a member of National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). He was an avid bowler and served on many teams. As a member and representative of the nonprofit community organization, Lay My Heart Out, Inc., he fully supported and believed in the vision of seniors helping seniors and offering them assistance. He passed away peacefully on October 16, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, quiet strength, and deep roots in our city’s history.

He was the son of the late legendary Jacksonville civil rights leader, Rutledge Henry Pearson, Sr.

He is survived by his sister, Patricia Pearson, brother: Roderick Pearson; stepdaughter: Mayah Yisrael (Yosiyah); nieces: Patricia Pearson, Jemica Archer, Nicole Young; nephews: Roderick Pearson Jr., Avery Pearson and Marshall Pearson; former wife: Brenda B. Pearson; granddaughters: Breanna Leonard, Nadiyah Yisrael and loving relatives and friends.

During this time, please keep all his family and friends in your thoughts and prayers.

In loving memory of Rutledge H. Pearson Jr., his Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, November 7, 2026 at Woodlawn Presbyterian Church, 3206 Woodlawn Road., Jacksonville FL, 32209.

Posted online on October 29, 2026

Published in Florida Times Union