It is with sorrow and gratitude that we mark the passing of Thomas Richard Pearce of Rossiter, PA — sorrow at the loss, gratitude for the life.
These are some of the moments and memories that shaped his story.
Some bonds are not loosened by absence.
Thomas Richard Pearce, 79, of Rossiter, passed away at home on May 5, 2026.
Mr. Pearce was born on October 2, 1946, a son of the late Joseph Andrew Pearce and Esther Elizabeth (Bouch) Pearce.
A graduate of Punxsutawney Area High School, he went on to faithfully serve his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.
On June 1, 1968, he married the love of his life, Linda Lou (Long) Pearce. They enjoyed nearly 58 years of marriage, raising a loving family together.
Thomas faithfully attended the Canoe Ridge Church of God, where his faith was an important and guiding part of his life.
Mr. Pearce was a dedicated provider for his family, working as a coal truck driver and seasonally as a glass cutter. He later went on to earn his degree as a licensed practical nurse. He spent 19 years at Punxsutawney Area Hospital as an LPN, a position he truly loved, cherishing both his work and the friendships he made there.
In his free time, he enjoyed watching westerns, especially Gunsmoke. He loved following the Steelers each football season, working on crossword puzzles, and relaxing with his family. He also cherished vacations with his family; some of his most memorable trips were to the Grand Canyon, the Delta Queen Mississippi River Cruise, and to New York City, where he saw Jersey Boys.
Thomas was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Joseph and Glen Pearce; and an infant sister.
He is survived by his wife, Linda; daughter, Sheila (Brian) Rosenberger of Reynoldsville, sons; Gregory (Amanda) Pearce of Massachusetts, and Randy Pearce of Punxsutawney; grandchildren, Kristen Rosenberger, Brian Rosenberger Jr., Isaac Pearce, and Charlotte Pearce; and great-grandchildren, Logan, Kiara, Cameron, Paisley, Callie, Rowan, and Lennox.
In accordance with Mr. Pearce's wishes, arrangements are private and entrusted to Shumaker Funeral Home, Inc., Punxsutawney.
Online condolences may be made at www.shumakerfh.com.
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