Mother Ruth Pearl Drake Robinson, 85, of Albany, Georgia departed this life on Thursday, January 1, 2026 at Willson Hospice House in Albany, Georgia.

Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. in the Second Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 1010 Old Pretoria Road, Albany, Georgia 31701.

Born to the late, great Deacon Theodus Drake, Sr. and Sara Ella Randolph Drake, PEARL—affectionately known as “Pearl”—was the eldest of fourteen children and a true example of strength, fearlessness, and unwavering faith in God. Growing up in rural Georgia, Florida, and briefly Pennsylvania, she learned early in life to trust God, lean not on her own understanding, acknowledge Him, and allow Him to direct her path.

MOMMIE’S EDUCATION: Born in Terrell County and educated in Worth and Dougherty Counties, Pearl often spoke of the six-mile walk she and her brother, Roger L., made daily to Mercer Mill School and St. James School. She loved learning but was forced to leave Monroe High School in the 11th grade to work. Despite this, she proudly recalled winning a spelling bee after studying diligently— proving wrong those who doubted her.

Later in life, Pearl earned her GED and obtained her cosmetology license, becoming a Master Cosmetologist. She also helped others become cosmetologists and barbers by allowing them to work under her license, giving them opportunities for a better future.

MOMMIE’S ADVENTURES: At 18, Pearl left Georgia for Boston, Massachusetts, where she worked as a maid, factory worker, and eventually a cosmetologist. While there, she met T homas Wesley Jaycox, whom she later married. From their union were born two daughters: Jacqueline Delwanna and Jamye Monek. Pearl lived in Boston from the late 1950s until returning to Georgia in 1977, where she remained until her earthly departure. In Albany, Georgia, she worked as a police officer, bus driver, and business owner (operating Robinson’s His and Hers Beauty Shop for 30 years). She was among the f irst Black female-owned businesses in the area and served the community faithfully. Pearl was also a foster parent for over 30 years and later adopted Tanesia King, who preceded her in death.

MOMMIE’S HOBBIES: Pearl enjoyed crossword puzzles, watching the Boston Red Sox, red lipstick, red fingernail polish, dressing up, dangling jewelry, cooking, and spending time with family and friends. She especially loved attending church and being involved in her church community. MOMMIE’S BELIEF: Pearl professed Jesus Christ at an early age and was baptized in Mercer Mill Creek by Reverend Jessie Johnson. She was a member of Mt. Early Missionary Baptist Church, where she sang in the choir. As a child, she sang in a gospel group formed by her father with her siblings Roger L. and Mary, called The Little Gospel Birds, traveling throughout surrounding counties. Later in life, Pearl became a member of Cutliff Grove Missionary Baptist Church, where her brother, Reverend McKinley Drake, served as pastor. She remained there as a Deaconess and Mother of the Church under Reverend Juanita Nixon until her earthly release. Pearl spoke openly and often about the goodness of God throughout her life.

MOMMIE AS A MOTHER: “You can have a penny in your pocket but never look like you’re broke”—a lesson Pearl instilled in her daughters. She taught them to hold their heads high, work hard, never give up on their dreams, walk in the way of God, love as God loves, and stand up for themselves. She was a strong, intelligent, and resilient woman who would do anything for her children. Pearl leaves to cherish her memory: 2 daughters - Jacqueline Jaycox Lamar (Harold) and Jamye Jaycox Spence (James); 2 sisters - Ira Dean Chatmon (Bernard) and Rosa Rocker(Charlie);5 brothers - Theodus Drake Jr (Carrie), Curtis Drake, Leon Drake (Rosetta), Clarence Drake (Sherrie), and Richard Drake; 5 grandchildren - Kennth McNair (Aja), Jasmine DeBruce, Liberty Cobb, Ivy Cobb, and Louis Cobb III; 5 greatgrandchildren; a host of nieces and nephews; several aunts and uncles; and 2 Goddaughters - Jennifer Slaughter and Marilyn Gordon. Pearl was preceded in death by her Parents Theodus and Sarah Drake, Siblings, Roger, Mckinley, Randolph, Shellman, Mary, and Carolyn Drake,

Meadows Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.