Obituary published on Legacy.com by JP Moore Mortuary & Cremation Services on Jul. 8, 2025.
To view Dr. Curry's souvenir journal, please click the "Program" link below:
Program
Dr. Pearlie Mae Johnson Curry
July 9, 1952 – July 5, 2025
"The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength" -Nehemiah 8:10
Dr. Pearlie Mae Johnson Curry was the delight of her parents, Augustus Johnson and Cora B. Moore, on July 9, 1952, the day of her birth in
Madison, Florida. This day, for their precious daughter, was the start of something good. Pearlie lived in the Plant Sub-Division community during her formative years. Together with her parents, her village of influencers who valued faith and hard work – her grandmother, community leaders, and her church, imparted morals and values by example. She resided in
Madison, Florida, most of her life.
Pearlie was taught early in life to have a relationship with God. As a young girl, she was spiritually moved to profess her faith in Jesus Christ at a Summer Revival held at Pineland Missionary Baptist Church, her forever church. As she grew in grace, the Lord strengthened her faith. She became a choir member as a toddler and eventually earned the leadership role. She enjoyed singing, emceeing, as well as speaking at church engagements. Years later, she answered His divine call to enter the ministry. She used her spiritual gifts and blessings for the greater good and returned all the glory to God, the giver of all things. She effectively presented "Creative Ways of Teaching" (for this everchanging world) to members at Congress of Christian Education as well as at Seminary.
Her public school educational journey began at Madison County Training School in
Madison, Florida, and concluded with her graduating with the Class of 1970 from New Stanton High School in Jacksonville, Florida. She advanced her education at FAMU where she earned her bachelor's and master's degrees. To better prepare for her ministerial calling, she enrolled in Bethany College and Seminary and earned her Doctor of Divinity degree. Her spiritual foundation was as strong as her professional one.
Pearlie was an educator in the Madison County School District for more than 29 years. She poured into her students a "can do" spirit to boost their self-esteem. Her strength inspired them; her wisdom guided them; her love nurtured them. She left a lasting impression on the hearts of those she taught in the Exceptional Education Program at Madison County High School, troubled youth at Greenville Hills Academy, and pregnant teen moms at Project Hope. Her last position was that of the M.C.H.S. Graduation Coach who reminded discouraged seniors that "the tassel is worth the hassle."
Because she pursued her dreams with perseverance, it was no surprise that she would begin an entrepreneurial career. Together with her soul mate Pete, Pearlie co-owned "The Cultured Pearl," a men's and ladies' fashion store. The couple also teamed up locally as popular disc jockeys, Sugar and Spouse.
Dr. Pearlie Curry was not one to sit idly by. She was actively involved in the Madison County Chapter of the Charmettes, Inc., the Electa Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star, and the Nu Omega Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
During Dr. Pearlie Mae Johnson Curry's extended illness, her fervent petition was "Jesus, keep me near the cross." On Saturday, July 5, 2025, the Master looked upon her with eyes of mercy and whispered her name. She obediently answered and went home to receive a crown of righteousness from the Righteous Judge. " Till my raptured soul shall find She has now found rest beyond the River." Her living has certainly not been in vain.
Dr. Pearlie Mae Johnson Curry's legacy is one of a well-lived life that is full of purpose, generosity, and endless love. Her spirit, love, and influence will live on in her loved ones' hearts. Those who will miss her and honor her precious memory are her devoted husband of 46 years: Willie James "Pete" Curry of
Madison, FL; bonus sons: Michael Curry of
Madison, FL, Kevin Curry of Clermont, FL, and Delvis Curry of Melbourne, FL; brother: Kelvin Johnson of Cleveland, OH; sisters: Patricia Ivory, Fagarie Wormack, Sherrie Wormack, all of Jacksonville, FL. and Pamela Johnson of Cleveland, OH; niece and nephew loved as her own: Raevondala Ivory and El Shanti Ivory, both of Jacksonville, FL; sister-in-love: Audrey Johnson of Miami, FL; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; best friends: Janie Cody of Gainesville, FL, Diane Wilder of Jacksonville, FL, and Pastor Emma Barfield, of
Madison, FL; together with many other sorrowing relatives, comforting friends, and uplifting Pineland Baptist Church family.
Loved ones to proceed Dr. Pearlie Mae Johnson Curry in death were her parents: Augustus Johnson and Cora B. Moore Wormack; brother: Reverend Bennie Johnson; grandmother: Ollie Frazier; uncle: Jesse Moore; and brotherin-love: John Ivory.
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