Pawnee — Christopher Derek Pearson, 69, of Pawnee, Illinois, passed away Thursday, July 9, 2026, at his home. Chris was born on Nov. 14, 1956, in Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, England. He married Kimberly S. Jackson (nee Willman) on Nov. 12, 2023, in Springfield, Illinois.

Chris was the owner and operator of SMC Services, an information technology company, for more than 20 years before retiring in 2015. He had a knack for solving problems and enjoyed taking things apart, figuring out how they worked, and putting them back together. He was also an accomplished carpenter and woodworker who helped family and friends remodel homes, complete projects, and fix just about anything that needed attention. If something needed fixing, there was a good chance Chris was already thinking about how to do it.

Proud of his English roots, Chris remained closely connected to the country where he was born. He was a lifelong supporter of Tottenham Hotspur Football Club, a devoted fan of The Who, and loved sharing stories from the many places he called home throughout his life, including England, Abu Dhabi, Arizona, Illinois, and the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Chris and Kim remodeled their beach house on the Mississippi Gulf Coast together, creating a place where family and friends always felt welcome. It became a place to relax, spend time together, and make memories with the people they loved.

Chris will be remembered for his quick wit, sense of humor, endless stories, and willingness to lend a hand. Whether he was repairing something, offering advice, or making people laugh, he was happiest when he could help someone else.

He was preceded in death by his father, Derek S. Pearson; his mother, Jean S. Pearson; and his brother, Barry Pearson of Manchester, England.

He is survived by his wife, Kimberly S. Jackson of Pawnee; two stepchildren, Brittani (Jeff) Allen of Belleville, Illinois, and Mitchell (Candice) Jackson of Belleville, Illinois; two grandchildren, Eleanor Jackson and Louie Allen; his siblings, Gillian Pearson of Barcelona, Spain, Hazel James of Shropshire, England, Terry Williams of Colchester, England, Patricia Pearson of Biggleswade, England, Graham Goodhew of Bedfordshire, England, and Jennifer Jones of Hertfordshire, England; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends in England, Arizona, Mississippi, Illinois, and beyond.

Cremation rites will be accorded.

Chris's family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. on July 25, 2026, at Curry Funeral Home in Pawnee.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Road, Springfield, IL 62702, or online at apl-shelter.org/donate.

Curry Funeral Home in Pawnee is honored to serve the family of Christopher D. Pearson. Online condolences may be expressed at www.curryfh.com.