Gabriel Thomas Pearce

Today we learned the terrible, tragic news that our nephew Gabe died in a car crash early this morning. I find myself in a state of complete disbelief. How can this possibly be true? We were just with him a few weeks ago, celebrating his graduation from VCU. He had so much going for him and so much more to experience. We will miss you greatly, Gabe.


Below is the story from the Richmond Times Dispatch.

PEARCE, Gabriel Thomas, 22, of Rockville, went home to be with our Lord on June 26, 2014. He is survived by his loving parents, David and Noemi Pearce; sister, Alisa; three brothers, Ephraim, Caleb and Noah; devoted grandparents, Julia Mae and Bob White, Noemi and George Haksch; adoring aunts, uncles; and cousins, especially Cory, his cousin and best friend; and best friend from birth, Ashleigh Kaye, with whom he shared his 22 years. Gabriel was preceded in death by his grandpa, Roy Pearce; his uncles, Thomas Haksch and Robbie White. Gabriel will be remembered for his love of the Lord, devotion to family and friends, appreciation for music and his sports participation throughout high school. Gabe was actively involved in lacrosse and Soundsations at Patrick Henry High School. He loved sharing his God-given talent of singing there and in church! Gabe cherished his time in nature while hunting, fishing and being close to God. Gabriel was such a blessing to those he touched through his contagious smile, sense of humor and his growing list of silly accents. Gabe's love for his family was evident by all his daily actions, sharing an exceptional relationship with his little brother, Noah. Alisa stated that she could turn to him for support without judgment. Gabe relished his big brother role in Caleb's life that continued into adulthood. The relationship, being only 18 months apart, was an especially close one. As Ephraim and Gabriel grew up, their closeness flourished beyond brotherhood into friendship. His siblings were blessed beyond words! Gabe was a member of the VCU Rugby team for four years, serving one year as vice president and two years as president. His dedication and contribution to the team brought it to its current status. He proudly graduated magna cum laude from VCU in May of 2014, with a double major in Criminal Justice and Homeland Security. He joined Henrico Sheriff's Office as a full-time deputy in April, after having completed training through a cooperative arrangement between VCU and Henrico County. His dad's proudest moment was when he was able to present Gabriel his badge. Gabriel will be greatly missed by all whose lives he touched.

The family will receive visitors at the West Chapel of Bennett Funeral Homes, 11020 West Broad St., Glen Allen, Va. 23060, on Sunday, June 29, 2014 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral services will be held at Berea Baptist Church, 15421 Pouncey Tract Rd., Rockville, Va. 23146, on Monday, June 30, 2014 at 5 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the Gabe Pearce Memorial Fund for VCU Rugby. Donations can be deposited at Wells Fargo into account number 5997385934.