James Turnham Pearson

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Pearson, James Turnham 80, of Minneapolis and Little Falls, MN, died February 6th. He is preceded in death by parents Mildred Turnham and Emil Pearson. Survived by loving wife, Lynda of Rochester, NY; cousin, Harriet Pratt, and Pearson cousins. Minnesota teachers and students lost a trusted, tireless, and dedicated advocate. Though diagnosed with lung cancer in December, Jim was still advocating for teachers at the Capitol the day before his death. Jim taught social studies at Southwest, South and North high schools in Minneapolis. He created an innovative and popular class at Hennepin County Government Center on street law for high schoolers. His students received a balanced and experiential education with guest speakers from all sides of issues. As a leader of the Minneapolis Federation of Teachers, Pearson served on the executive board, negotiating team, and chaired the legislative and COPE committees for years. He continued to be a trusted advisor to local and state leaders following retirement in l992. As a seasoned, ethical, and effective lobbyist, Jim earned the trust of legislators on both sides of the aisle. His life demonstrated his commitment to American democracy, recognized by the American Civil Liberties Union by honoring Jim with its distinguished service award. Jim was a leader in his state union, the Minnesota Federation of Teachers, and in the Minnesota AFL-CIO, an umbrella organization for Minnesota unions. He was dedicated to the importance of local, grassroots political activity. He chaired the 2nd Ward DFL for many years, and was a frequent delegate to state DFL conventions. Jim was an avid trout fisherman taking him all over the country to find the next secret spot. A gifted gardener, he propagated rare wild flowers in his Little Falls garden. Family was an important center of Jim's life. He put thousands of miles on his cars caring for his mother in Little Falls who lived to 105. His lifelong quest for social justice never wavered. There were never any limits on Jim's time, energy, persistence and commitment to students, teachers and retirees. His close friends will remember his sage, honest advice. Jim left a lasting imprint on the education, the labor movement, and Minnesota politics. A memorial service will be Saturday, February 23rd at 10:30 a.m. at Colony Park Church, 5532 Wooddale Ave South in Edina (entrance and parking in rear off Lexington St.) followed by food, family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the Jim Pearson Government Relations Scholarship at Achieve!Minneapolis, 111 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55401.

Published on February 17, 2008