01/20/2026
With profound sadness we say goodbye to Karl, whose vibrant spirit has left a void in the lives of so many people. Karl Anthony Pearson was born on September 11, 1958 to his parents, Thomas and Juanita Pearson, who preceded him in death. He departed this life on the evening of January 8, 2026 at the Southern Maryland Hospital in Clinton, Maryland.
Karl was raised in Alexandria, Virginia and attended church at Mount Jezreel in Alexandria, Virginia. He attended T.C. Williams High School. Following his graduation, Karl pursued classes in Early Childhood Education at Northern Community College and later continued his studies at Old Dominion University. Karl embraced the curriculum and was actively engaged in workshops. He also received numerous accolades for
his contribution to education and mental health.
For numerous years, Karl worked at T.C. Williams High School in Alexandria, Virginia as well as the Department of Recreation also in Alexandria, Virginia. He possessed an extraordinary passion and talent for teaching and discipline along with a remarkable ability to connect with teachers, students, and children.
The next chapter in Karl’s life began when he discovered a dream that he could truly claim as his own, Emmalene, the love of his life. They were married. There were moments when it felt as though they were teetering on the edge, while navigating life challenges after 44 years. Oftentimes Karl would say to Emmalene, “Don’t build your life around people’s opinion.” He also told her to “never take pride in herself for any negative comments towards her.”
Karl also had a passion for sports, particularly the football teams, Washington Commanders and at time the Baltimore Ravens. In basketball, Karl supported Georgetown, Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, Chicago Bulls, Washington Wizards, LA Clippers and LA Lakers.
During Karl’s leisure time, he and Emmalene explored both domestic and international destinations. This included remarkable places such as, Paris France and Geneva, Switzerland. For several years, the family journeyed on the Nation Coach Bus Line and explored numerous cities with the family.
Karl leaves behind his devoted wife; his godchild whom he cherished, Rayquan; his brothers: Thomas, Jr., Darryl and Mich; one sister, Caryln; numerous nieces and nephews; one aunt, Auntie Geneva; six brothers-in-law; six sisters-in-law; and a host of friends including, the wonderful Hunter family, the Harris family, Hargrove family, the Tate family, Mr. Ford and the school board in Alexandria, Virginia.
In addition to his parents, Karl was preceded in death by one sister, Doria Jean.
Funeral service was held on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at the Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church in Boydton, VA., with the Elder Charles D. Allen delivering the eulogy.