Lyndon (Lyndy) Pearson, pioneer of the promotional products industry and Counselor’s Person of the Year in 1998, passed away on Sept 10. He was 90.

Born in Summit, NJ, Pearson graduated from Hobart College before serving as a pilot in the United States Marine Corps from 1952 to 1956, having achieved the rank of captain. In 1958, he became a pilot and sales promotion manager for Thompson Tractor in Birmingham, AL, where he got to fly legendary Alabama coach Paul “Bear” Bryant.

Pearson joined Alabaster Industries as national sales director in 1964, launching his 40-year career in the promotional products industry. In 1978, he co-founded American Household Products, and a decade later, he joined Schmidt-Cannon (asi/125870). Heavily admired in the industry, he served on the PPAI Board of Directors in various positions over the years.

Lyndy was a natural salesman and brought the worlds of premium products and promotional products together. “He was a mentor to many in the industry, especially in teaching young people how to succeed,” said his son Barry Pearson.

He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Ruth Hatch Pearson; his children Janet Pearson Turman (Rick), Barry Stewart Pearson (Mary Beth), Lee Bowers Pearson (Sharon), Leslie Pearson Bates (Albert); his 10 grandchildren; and his 12 great-grandchildren.

A private family memorial service will be held at St Luke’s Episcopal Church on Sept. 16. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the St Luke’s Foundation in Birmingham, AL, or to the Promotional Products Education Foundation (PPEF) in Lyndy’s honor.

To share memories or condolences email: pearsonmktg@earthlink.net.