Emma Pearl Mathis

Edwards Small Mortuary announces with our deepest sympathies the passing of Emma Pearl Mathis on May 15, 2025. Our sincere condolences to the family and friends.

Emma Pearl Mathis, affectionately known as “Pearl,” was born on June 4, 1937, to the late Emmitt and Lessie Grimes in Crawfordville, Georgia. As the youngest of three children, Pearl lived a life marked by unwavering faith, deep devotion to family, and a heart committed to serving others. She touched the lives of many through her kindness and selflessness, living in such a way that, upon her arrival, Heaven welcomed her with the words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”

She received her early education in Greene County before her family relocated to Fort Valley, Georgia, in 1947. Pearl graduated from H.A. Hunt High School in 1955 and attended Fort Valley State College. She later served the college as a telephone operator and in public safety, where she became a trusted and steady presence. Known for her straightforward nature and quiet strength, Pearl offered guidance, encouragement, and compassion to students and colleagues alike.

A devoted member of Central Union Missionary Baptist Church, Pearl served as an Usher and worshiped with grace and humility. Her faith extended beyond the church and was evident in her daily life—she treated others with warmth, stood firmly on her values, and believed in doing what was right. She raised her children with love and discipline, cared for the sick, and uplifted those in need. Her life was her ministry, and her faith was her foundation.

Pearl was united in marriage to the late James David Mathis, Jr. Together, they raised five sons: Ralph Jerome, Gregory Leon, James David III, Eric Raynard, and Rodney Kimball Mathis. Though the youngest of her siblings, Pearl stood out with her wit, wisdom, and charm. She lit up any room with her presence. As the matriarch, she shaped generations with her steady hand and open heart, nurturing not only her sons and grandchildren but also nieces, nephews, and cousins who found comfort and belonging in her home.

Her house was a haven of love and joy. Thanksgiving at her table, filled with home-cooked favorites, was a cherished tradition. She nourished both body and soul, leaving a lasting legacy of love, wisdom, and strength.

Pearl was a proud Fellowship Member of the Pride of Fort Valley #480 Order of the Eastern Star. She was known for saying what she meant and meaning what she said. She instilled in her children the values of compassion, unity, and peace. Her bond with her sister and best friend, Lillian, was known to all—where one went, the other followed. They were truly inseparable.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Emmitt and Lessie Grimes; her husband, James David “JD” Mathis, Jr.; her siblings, Lillian Kennedy and Ennis Grimes, Sr.; and her son, Gregory Mathis.

Pearl leaves her memories to be cherished forever by her sons: Ralph J. Mathis, James D. Mathis III, Eric R. Mathis (Joicy), and Rodney K. Mathis; grandchildren: Wendy N. Boozer, Jasmine N. Mathis, Jamaal R. Mathis, Jamarcus G. Mathis, Jade A. Mathis; sisters-in-law: Mildred Houston, Bettye Jean Clark, Jewel Mathis, Shirley Mathis, Doris West, and Lois Mathis; and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.