Worthington High Schools Alumni Club - Deceased Classmates
First Name
Robert Oakley
Maiden Name
Last Name
Pearce
Passing Date
7/10/2025
Class Attended
1980
High School
Worthington High School
Robert Oakley Pearce was born on March 21st, 1962. He was a life-long resident of the Columbus area. He graduated from Worthington high school in 1980, and received a BA in Business Administration from Franklin University in 1995. Worthington was his first love, where he spent much of his childhood. Rob had a fiery spirit and lots of energy. He walked vigorously every day. His favorite spot was along the Scioto River in Upper Arlington, another Columbus haunt he enjoyed. In addition to his walks, he worked out regularly. He often put energy into loving his family--choosing thoughtful gifts, reminding them to take care of themselves, and helping in any way he thought possible. Be like Rob--use your energy to care for your own body and others. His life, like any life, was one of ups and downs. He suffered from epilepsy, yet fought tooth and nail to be the best version of himself he thought he could be. He maintained a driver’s license up until his death, something often difficult for those in his situation. He devoured self-help books and treasured advice from men he respected, such as his grandpa Oakley. When his daughter asked him to quit smoking cigarettes as a child, he did. Be like Rob--pursue positive change. He and his daughter had a great relationship. Their favorite thing to do was to eat at locally owned places like Villa Nova Pizza, Smith’s Deli, and Graeter’s Ice Cream. When it was realized alcohol was a snare to him, she encouraged him to get help. He would often just say, “I don’t have a problem, I take good care of myself.” Don’t be like Rob--be honest with yourself. Yet, after he passed, they found a new looking AA coin among his belongings. Be like Rob--come around to the truth, and get help while you can. Rob cared deeply about being a good person. He was often seen doing small acts of gentlemanly kindness, like holding doors open for strangers. Yet, he was mistaken in thinking his own goodness was enough in life. He wanted nothing to do with God. However, there is a sliver of hope that perhaps he heard the gospel one last time, maybe at AA, and gave his heart over to his Creator in his last days. Don’t be like Rob--don’t run away from God.Rob passed away in early July, 2025, at the age of 63. He unexpectedly, yet peacefully passed in his sleep, with no signs of struggle. He was discovered during a wellness check on July 10th. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert H. Pearce. He is survived by his daughter Linda (Liam) Ward; his mother Alberta Whitman; his three sisters: Dottie, Beth, and Leslie; in addition to nieces, nephews, and close friends. A loving father, brother, son, and friend, he will be missed by all who knew him. Rob was an avid buckeye fan and followed college sports.
