STATESBORO — On July 28, Timothy Pearson, Ph.D, died from complications of COVID-19, according to his obituary.

At the time of his death, Pearson was the director of the school of accountancy and professor of accounting.

“He was an expert in forensic accounting and served as editor for multiple academic journals, published numerous peer-reviewed articles, and secured millions in grant funding,” his obituary reads. “He took great pride in his teaching and was dedicated to mentoring and advising young professionals as they began their careers.”

Pearson’s death marks the first known faculty death from COVID-19 at Georgia Southern.

In a statement to The George-Anne, GS officials said, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of a member of the Georgia Southern University family. Our sympathy goes out to the individual’s loved ones. Out of respect for the family and friends of the deceased, we will not comment further.”

“Timothy is survived by and will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 35 years, Lori, and his 4 children- Nathan, Joshua, Skylar, and Samuel. He is also survived by his beautiful granddaughter Violette, Samuel’s partner Cassidy, his brothers Dave and Bill, and his sisters Pegge and Judith,” reads his obituary.