Pearl Mae Stewart

A  walk-thru viewing at Anderson-Ragsdale Mortuary on Thursday, Feb. 4th from 5pm-7pm, Graveside services will be at 1:00PM Friday, Feb. 5th at LaVista Memorial Park, National City, CA.

PEARLIE MAE was born April 9, 1938 to proud parents, Reuben and Katherine Elizabeth Smith. As an only child, Pearl was adventurous, outgoing and independent. She loved to tell stories of how she would travel by train from Mississippi to St. Louis by herself, at the age of 5, to visit her grandmother. When Pearl was 9, she moved to San Diego, CA with her mother. She attended Lincoln High School where she was a part of the spirit squad and was one of the individuals responsible for creating the Lincoln High School mascot (Hornets). She was also one of the original BAAPs (Black African American Princesses). She continued on with her schooling and became a nurse.

Pearl had passion for music and was a very talented singer & dancer. She showed her talents when she performed for the troops at USO shows on 32nd ST Naval Base; it was there that she met John Sanders. They later married and were blessed with two daughters.

After their separation, she moved to Los Angeles where she worked for the Musician’s Union. On occasion, she would have jam sessions singing back up for many famous singers of the early 60’s. It was there she met her second husband, William Stewart. Their union was blessed with a son, and three daughters. The family moved back to San Diego to be closer to her mother. She continued her career working for the Girl Scouts of America, retiring with more than 25 years of service.

Pearl was a faithful believer of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She practiced her faith and attended ‘New Life Gospel Center’ under the leadership of Pastor John Cannon.

Pearl spent her last days in the loving company of her family and friends, making her transition on Sunday, January 24, 2021. Pearl is our national treasure and is truly cherished and loved by all.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Katherine Elizabeth, eldest daughter, Rosalyn Scott; and loving great-grandson, James Javion Bowens. Pearl leaves many to mourn her passing, but we rejoice in knowing she is in heaven with the Lord.

Pearls beautiful life will forever be cherished in the lives of those she leaves behind. She is survived by her 5 children: Katherine Cole (Leon Cole) of San Diego, CA, Richard Stewart of San Diego, CA, Bernadette Runnells (Donald Runnells) of Las Vegas, NV; Carla Stewart of San Diego, CA and Celeste Stewart of San Diego, CA; 14 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren; her church family, friends and neighbors. She will be deeply missed.

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