Obituary of Pearl Gipson
Willie Pearl Gipson, affectionately known as Pearl, aged 82, passed away peacefully at her home in Plainfield, New Jersey, on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. Born on October 3, 1941, in Anniston, Alabama, to Willie and Rena Williams, Pearl's early life in the South laid the foundations for her remarkable journey. After graduating from Anniston High School in 1958, she eventually moved to Cranford, Linden, and New Brunswick before making Plainfield her cherished home for over five decades.
Pearl's professional path was marked by a distinguished career as a finance department manager at AT&T in Basking Ridge, New Jersey. Her pursuit of further education and independence led her to obtain a real estate license, empowering her to thrive as a self-employed property manager. Known for her precise and methodical approach, Pearl’s business acumen was a testament to her determination and independence, earning her widespread respect.
An annual highlight for Pearl was her cherished vacations to Wildwood, New Jersey, with her sister Catherine and her children. Later in life, she relished her time at Cape May and enjoyed traveling, particularly on cruises, with her longtime companion, Lawrence Coleman. Above all, Pearl took profound joy in the company of her family, celebrating life’s milestones with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Pearl was predeceased by her sister, Joann Carter and her only brother Willie Williams, Jr.
Pearl leaves behind a legacy of strength and perseverance, mirrored in the lives of her beloved family: her longtime companion, Lawrence Coleman; her children, Alicia Fonseca and her partner John, Michelle Gipson, Leroy Gipson III and wife Melissa, and Glenn Gipson and fiancée Vanny; four grandchildren, Francesca Fonseca, Jasmine Taylor, Shaun Walks Jr., and Leroy Gipson IV; and four great-grandchildren, Mekhi, Zakayah, Ayalah, Kali. She is also survived by her siblings Rena Porter, Catherine Pinns, and Selena Boyd, alongside many nieces, nephews, and friends.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, from 10 AM to 12 PM at Higgins Home For Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, NJ 07069. A funeral service will follow at 12 PM at the same location, with interment at Hillside Cemetery, Scotch Plains, New Jersey.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Pearl's name may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation, honoring her commitment to philanthropy and community support.
Pearl Gipson's legacy is defined not just by her achievements but by her enduring impact on those who knew her. Her tenacity and dedicated spirit will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
