It would be interesting to review the paper work associated with the procurement of a Confederate tombstone for a soldier last recorded as having deserted. It could be he later re-appeared on active duty, however, we have no evidence of such.

I was also suprised to see he also had a private grave marker. I was under the impression that VA Confederate tombstones would not be provided if a private
marker existed.

H. L. Pearson, Private, Company B/D, Steede's Battalion, Mounted Partisan Rangers (Lovell Rangers),* enlisted May 10, 1862 at Gainsville, Miss. by Capt. J. M. Poitevent for the war, deserted May 7, 1863, not recorded on the subsequent muster roll dated December 31, 1863

* This company subsequently became Company B, 9th Regiment Mississippi Cavalry

Note: His name does not appear in the roster of the 9th Mississippi Cavalry

M269: Compiled Service Records of Confederate Soldiers Who Served in Organizations from the State of Mississippi