It's been a little more than four months since Lenoir County Deputy Allen Pearson died in a gun fight off Tick Bite Road.
Tuesday night the people the young detective gave his life to protect showed their gratitude by renaming a popular park in his honor.
His wife, Katherine Pearson, explained, "He was my heart, he was my love and you know that’s not an easy thing to lose."
She said dealing with losing him has only gotten harder. “You're used to seeing him every day. He was my husband, he was a son and he was a friend and you're used to seeing him every day and he was the most important person in my life and that doesn't get easier."
Pearson died protecting others, so to honor that sacrifice, the City of Kinston renamed "Neuseway Park" to "Pearson Park.”
After the unveiling of the new sign, they released 29 balloons. Each one represented a year of Pearson’s life.
Rickie Pearson Senior said, "It’s a wonderful tribute to my son and to my family and I’m very grateful."
Dealing with the loss of a loved one is never easy, but Cecilia Parker, who was instrumental in getting the name change, says this will assure everyone who visits will never forget his sacrifice.
"This is a way for the community to come back and remember Allen and keep his legacy going,” said Parker.
In addition to his duties at the Sheriff's Office, Pearson also taught at the basic law enforcement training center in Lenoir County.
One thing friends say Pearson loved to do was shag to Beach Music.
After the dedication of the newly named park, the Band of Oz took to the stage as part of Kinston’s Sand in the Streets.
Sand in the Streets is a summer long concert series in Kinston.
People were able to enjoy some good music, dancing and much needed refreshments during the hot afternoon.
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