Annie Mae Pearson

Sister Annie Mae Pearson, daughter of the late Mr. Moses M. and Mrs. Martha Utsey Gossett, was born on January 31, 1930, in Malvern, Arkansas. On January 28, 2026, she peacefully passed from labor to reward.

She received her education in the Malvern Public Schools. At an early age, she united with Bethel A.M.E. Church under the leadership of Rev. W. M. Eason. A devoted and faithful member throughout her life, Sister Pearson served in many capacities within the Church. She was a member of the Junior Choir, Young Adult Choir, and Secretary and Member of the Pastor’s Aid. She also served as Superintendent of the Sunday School Youth Department and as a dedicated Sunday School Teacher. Her leadership extended to her role as Vice President of the Women’s Missionary Society on the local level and as Chairperson of her unit.

On the Conference Branch level, she was a member of the Budget and Financial Estimates Standing Committee. Sister Pearson also served faithfully as Vice President and President of Stewardess Board #3, Trustee, and Class Leader. She organized the Easter Memorial Garden Club and was a proud member of the Pride of Bethel Club. Her commitment to service reflected her deep love for GOD and her Church Community.

Her love for the community also extended beyond the walls of the Church. She served faithfully as a Foster Grandparent, working with children whose lives she touched in meaningful and lasting ways. Through her dedication, she received numerous awards and recognitions, a testament to the care, patience, and compassion she shared with every child placed in her path.

She also made history in her profession, becoming the first licensed Black Female Barber in the state of Arkansas, a distinction that reflected her determination, skill, and pioneering spirit. She was also one of the first women to be hired at Reynolds Metals Company, further demonstrating her courage to break barriers and open doors for those who followed.

Sister Pearson was formerly married to the late Mr. Hoover Pearson.

She was preceded in death by her children Mrs. Rebecca Jarvis and Mr. John W. Matlock; one brother, Mr. Moses Gossett Jr.; two sisters, Mrs. Dorothy Cotton, and Mrs. Elise Sparks; and two grandchildren, Ms. Lori Wilson and Ms. Joy Enori Wilson.

She leaves to cherish her memory five loving children: Lawrence (Karen) Matlock of Germany; Bishop Byron (Doris) Collins of Norfolk, Virginia; Mrs. Dierdre (Ira Lee) Whitfield of Little Rock, Arkansas; Ms. Dawn Collins of Norfolk, Virginia; and Mrs. Dorphelia (Jeffery) Freeman of Triangle, Virginia. She is also survived by fifteen grandchildren: Anthony Matlock, Toby Matlock, Johnathon Matlock, Marcus Matlock, Natosha Sturgis, Pastor Byron Collins, Jr., Abraham Collins, Dana Tatum, Erica Whitfield, Iris Whitfield,  Alexander Whitfield, Timothy Wilson, Joshua Freeman, and Anjelica Collins, and thirty-five great-grandchildren, five great-great grandchildren, and two great-grand grandchildren on the way, along with a nephew Damien Gossett, extended family, church members, and friends who will deeply miss her kind spirit and enduring faith.

The Celebration of Life service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Bethel A.M.E. Church at 1220 Carmichael St, Malvern, AR 72104 with Bishop Byron Collins and Pastor Daryell Howell officiating. Her earthly body will be laid to rest at Masonic Cemetery in Malvern.

An online guestbook is available below for family and friends to share memories and condolences. Brandon’s Mortuary is honored to be entrusted with professional and compassionate care.