Kenneth Leon Pearson

     Kenneth Leon Pearson, 90, of Cobden, Illinois, passed away on April 17, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

     Kenneth was born on May 18, 1935, in Cobden, the son of Lee H. and Roxie Lillian (Newberry) Pearson. He married Marie L. Acklin on November 4, 1960. She preceded him in death on October 18, 2002.

     In his younger years, he worked in construction, where he built not only structures but a reputation for hard work and dedication. Later in life, he returned to his roots and spent his years farming, a life he truly cherished.

     He was a man who valued honest work, simple living, and time spent with those he loved. Whether in the fields or with family, Kenneth found joy in the life he built with his own hands.

     He is survived by his children, Richard (Lupe) Pearson, Wayne (Tina) Pearson, Shirley (Gary) Broadway, and Kenny (Courtney) Pearson; 13 grandchildren, JR, Amanda, Brooks, Chris, Matt, Bobbi, Charity, Josh, Chad, Brianna, Johnnie, Jeanette, and Laura; 21 great-grandchildren, Kayln, Elle, Lilli, Grace, Vance, Addy, Jayden, Henry, Evelynn, Annabelle, Daniel, Carley, Blake, Lacy, Stella, Conner, Kenli, Kharmadi, Kaecin, Audrey, and Skylin; one brother, Richard (Jan) Pearson; and one sister, Faye Pearson. Many nieces and nephews and friends.

     He is proceeded in death by his loving wife Marie, sisters Lillian Pearson, Anita "Gaye" Pearson, Kay Ellen Robinson. Brothers Doug, Corkey, Gene and Donald Pearson, Grandson David Broadway, and a great grandson Austin Brantley Pearson

     Funeral services will be held Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Rendleman and Hileman Funeral Home in Cobden, with Dennis Nance officiating. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 11:00 AM until the time of service at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Rowan Cemetery. Memorial contributions are preferred to Rowan Cemetery. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

     Though he has laid his tools to rest, his spirit will forever echo through the fields he loved