Mrs. Pearley Jea Smith
August 19, 1943 - October 26, 2026

Pearley Jean Smith, a woman of warmth, grace, and devotion, transitioned peacefully on October 26, 2026, at the age of 83. Born in Marion County, Mississippi, Pearley spent her life as a dedicated homemaker in New Orleans, Louisiana, where she poured her heart into raising her children and grandchildren.

To know Pearley was to love her. She possessed the sweetest smile and was genuinely one of the finest human beings you would ever meet. In her community and among her family, she was affectionately known as "Mama," "Granny," and "Aunt Pearl." Her home and heart were always open. She made it her mission to ensure that the neighborhood kids were fed, cared for, and treated like family. Her legacy is one of unconditional love, comfort, and an open door.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Percy Smith Sr.; her parents, Henry Alford and Gladys McGowan; her brother, Joe Henry Alfred; her sister, Valarie Thompson; her son, Willie Ray Cowart; her grandsons, Terry Jefferson and Byron Smith; and her granddaughter, Kennedy Martin.

Pearley's memory and spirit will live on through her surviving children: Craig Peters, Percilla Smith, Percy Smith, and Prescott Smith; her sister-in-law, Daphne Alfred; her god-sister, Edna "Bookie" Barnes; as well as a host of cherished grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends whose lives she touched so deeply.

A celebration of her beautiful life and legacy will be held to honor the incredible woman she was and the profound imprint she leaves on all our heart.