Floretta P. Pearson-Perry

Evangelist Floretta P. Pearson-Perry, a beloved servant of God and cherished resident of Flint, Michigan, was born May 12, 1938 in Oxford, Mississippi, the youngest child of the late Mr. Clarence (Son) and Lizzie Harwell Perry. From her earliest days, she carried a heart of grace, compassion, and unwavering faith. Floretta received her education at Valley Chapel, East Providence, and OTS (Central High) in Oxford, Mississippi, later pursuing higher learning at Mott Community College, where she earned her degree in Early Childhood Development. Her love for children and education reflected her God-given gift to nurture and inspire young lives. In 1958, she joined Rock Hill Missionary Baptist Church of Oxford, where she first began her journey of dedicated service. That same year, she married Mr. James Pearson. Though their child born of this union passed away in infancy, Floretta’s heart grew ever more tender toward others, and her faith only deepened. In 1965, Floretta answered the call to new beginnings and relocated to Flint, Michigan. There, in March of 1966, at Bethlehem Temple Church of Apostolic Faith, she was baptized in the name of Jesus and received the precious gift of the Holy Ghost—a defining moment that would shape the course of her ministry and life’s work. Her service to God was tireless and filled with joy. Locally, she blessed the church in countless roles: Sunday School teacher for the primary class, kitchen aide, choir member in both the Young Adult and Senior choirs, children’s church director, youth minister, treasurer, devotional worship leader, altar worker and chairwoman of the altar workers, and church clerk. Her voice of worship and her leadership in prayer lifted many into the presence of the Lord. On a broader scale, Evangelist Pearson-Perry served faithfully at the state level, including as assistant treasurer for the Women’s Auxiliary of the National Divinity College (NDC), vice chairwoman of the Evangelists for the NDC, panelist, and associate minister. In recognition of her calling and service, she was licensed in 1976 and ordained in 1988 by the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc.

Her life was a testament to 2 Timothy 4:7—“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” Floretta’s unwavering commitment to the Kingdom, her generous spirit, and her unshakable faith left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She was a beacon of light, a vessel of wisdom, and a faithful servant whose love for God and His people was evident in everything she did. Though she has gone home to be with the Lord, her legacy of faith, service, and love continues to inspire generations. Evangelist Floretta P. Pearson-Perry’s life was a beautiful offering to God, and her crown of righteousness surely awaits her in glory. Evangelist Floretta P. Pearson-Perry leaves to cherish her memory: brother, Jesse W. Perry of Flint; step-brother, Cleophas Jones of Oklahoma City, OK; step-sisters, Odessa Williams, Etta Ruth Key, Voella (Susie) Stokes, all of Oxford, MS and Rosie M. (Sam) Crawford of Chicago, IL; 6 nieces, Melvenus Dunn, Delphine Smith (Daryl), all of Flint, Vanessa (Anthony) McCarty of Clinton, MS, Leticia (Jerry) Rice, Floretta Smith, all of Brookhaven, MS and Ebonie Odgen of Smyrna, TN; 4 nephews, Darnell (Ingrid) Smith of Frankfort, Germany, Perry Smith of Brookhaven, MS, J. Glaston (Shannon) Perry of Sardis, MS and Anton Perry of Flint; a host of cousins including special cousin, Opaline Kelly; sister-in-law, Essie Hubbard; brother-in-law, Major Pearson, all of Oxford, MS; a host of other relatives and friends including special friend, Cherie Smith. Evangelist Pearson-Perry was preceded in death by her son, Leonard Pearson; parents, Mr. Clarence (Son) and Lizzie Harwell Perry; sister, Mary Smith; brothers, Melvin Perry, Marvin Perry, Jimmy Perry and Frank Buggs.