Otto Elof Pearson, Jr., 83, of Columbia, died Wednesday, December 16, 2015. Born in Monticello, SC, on April 10, 1932, he was a son of the late Otto Elof Pearson, Sr. and Lillian Jenkins Pearson. He served 4 years in the US Navy during the Korean Conflict and would retire from DHEC where he was the Bureau Chief of Air Quality Control. He was a charter member of Fair Lawn United Methodist Church where he was Scout Master for 19 years. He received the Silver Beaver Award for his dedication to the Scouting program.

Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Catherine Bryan Pearson; children, Dianne Harden (Mike). Lisa Clevenger (Gary), and Craig Pearson (Tammy); five grandchildren, Katie, Lauren and Matthew Pearson, Aaron and Hannah Clevenger. He is also survived by his lifelong friend, William E. "Eddie" Moore, whom he loved like a brother.

A celebration of life service will be held 11 o'clock, Saturday, December 19th at Fair Lawn United Methodist Church, with The Rev. Scott Bratton officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 10 o'clock. Memorials may be made to Fair Lawn United Methodist Church, 9203 Wilson Blvd.., Columbia, SC 29203. Shives Funeral Home, Colonial Chapel, is assisting the family.