Pearlie M. Jones

Pearlie Mae Jones was born on January 4, 1940, in Stuckey, Florida, to the late Essex and Janie McKinnon. Raised in a close-knit family and community, she developed the values of faith, perseverance, compassion, and service that would guide her throughout her life. Driven by a passion for education, Pearlie continued her studies after high school by attending Miami-Dade Junior College. While living in Opa-locka, Florida, she resided with her Uncle Freddy, whose support and encouragement helped her pursue her educational goals. She later continued her academic journey at Bethune-Cookman College, where she earned her degree in Elementary Education. Following graduation, Pearlie devoted herself to a distinguished career in education. She faithfully served the students and families as an educator of the Lake County School District for 32 years. Throughout her career, she taught at Groveland Elementary school, Treadway Elementary School and later retired from Rosborough Elementary School. Teaching was more than a profession to Pearlie-it was a calling. She found great joy in helping children learn, grow, and believe in themselves, thereby leaving a lasting impact on generations of students. On June 27, 1970, Pearlie married the love of her life, David Lee Jones. Together they built a life rooted in faith, love, and family. Their marriage reflected a deep commitment to one another and served as an example of devotion through the years. A woman of strong faith, Pearlie began her service at Saint Mary Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor A.L Russell, where she faithfully served as financial secretary. She later united with Bethel Free Methodist Church under the leadership of Reverend Lucious Taylor. Throughout her years of membership, she served in numerous capacities, including church hostess, secretary, Sunday School teacher, usher, and chairperson of the Stewardess Board. Through these roles, she helped sponsor and coordinate many church programs, events, and activities that enriched the life of the congregation. Her faith was not only something she professed-it was something she lived. Through her kindness, wisdom, and willingness to serve, she touched the lives of many, both inside and outside the church. Beyond her work and ministry, Pearlie enjoyed traveling and spending time with those she loved. She was known for her warm heart, gentle spirit, and genuine concern for others. Family was one of her greatest joys, and she never missed an opportunity to encourage, support, and celebrate those she loved. To her grandchildren, she was affectionately known as “Mama Dear," a name that reflected the love, wisdom, guidance, and nurturing presence she provided throughout her life. Her legacy of faith, education, and unconditional love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. On May 30, 2026, Pearlie Jones peacefully entered eternal rest. While her physical presence will be deeply missed, her influence, her teachings, and the countless memories she created will remain a treasured gift to her family, friends, former students, and church family. Pearlie was preceded in death by her parents, Essex and Janie Lee McKinnon; sister, Lois Brown; and brothers: Lavern McKinnon and Willie McKinnon. She leaves to cherish her memory and mourn her passing: her loving husband of 56 years, David Jones; her children, Drexell Jones, Cicely Marks (Jerald) and Javante Berry; four grandchildren, Cameron Jones, Camille Jones, Karmen Greene and Chase Marks; her sisters, Mildred Hodges, Bernice Hodges, and Joyce Williams; brothers, Herbert McKinnon and David McKinnon; sister-in-law, Elizabeth Jones and Elaine Cannady; special friends, Janet Redmon and Dorothea Fogle along with four God-sons, one God daughter, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, former students, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Tributes

Pearlie M. Jones

January 4, 1940 - May 30, 2026