On Tuesday, August 9, 2022, our God, who is infinite in wisdom, called our beloved Pearl Anna Richards from her earthly labor to her well-deserved heavenly reward.  Pearl was 90 years old. 

  

Pearl, known as Nanny to her children and grandchildren, was born on April 4, 1932, in Enterprise, Alabama, to R. H. and Leslie Miller.  The fourth of seven children, Pearl accepted Christ as her personal Savior at an early age and was baptized at Shady Grove Baptist Church in Daleville, Alabama.  Pearl was a good student and graduated from Coffee County High School, where she was academically successful and excelled athletically in basketball and track and field. 

  

On November 29, 1952, Pearl united in Holy Matrimony to Joseph Richard (aka Pop-Pops).  They relocated from Alabama to Los Angeles, California, in the mid-1950s.  At that time, the family’s name changed from Richard (with no “s”) to Richards.  It was a point of contention as to when, where, and how the “s” was added.  Pop-Pops often claimed that Nanny changed the name; however, because he often told an abundance of “fantastical” stories about his childhood in Louisiana, he was not taken seriously. 

  

Pearl was a phenomenal and hard-working woman.  For several years, she was employed as a Steam Press Operator at Leonard’s Cleaners in Hollywood, CA.  Because she loved giving back and serving others, she returned to school and received her Certification as a Nursing Assistant.  Later in life, she also earned a Certification in Child Development.  For the last 12 years of her career, Pearl worked for Children’s Institute-Grandma House supporting parents, caregivers, and their children, until she retired in 2014.  After listening to her describe her work at Children’s Institute, we concluded that she worked as a “Professional Hugger.”  

  

Pearl set the example of what a Family Sunday Dinner looked like.  She had several entrees of food prepared EVERY SUNDAY whether others showed up or not – but someone ALWAYS showed up!  There was no doubt that Pearl thrived when her family was around.  She especially loved her grandchildren in her home - showing them love, giving them sweet treats (she was a cookie fanatic), babysitting, Saturday morning pancakes or a special Nanny sandwich.  She was simply THE BEST NANNY in the world.  In addition, anyone she met became part of her family and was always welcomed in her home. Our Nanny became their Nanny – that mother or grandmother figure that made you feel safe and at home. 

  

Pearl had an active prayer life.  Her children often witnessed her on her knees praying before bed.  She attended Faithful Central Bible Church until her health declined.  Pearl’s characteristics reflect those of a Virtuous Woman: “…She is more precious than rubies…Her husband can trust her, and she will greatly enrich his life…She gets up before dawn to prepare breakfast for her household…She is energetic and strong, a hard worker…She extends a helping hand to the poor and opens her arms to the needy…She is clothed with strength and dignity…When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness…Her children stand and bless her…Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised…Reward her for all she has done.  Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.” Proverbs 31