Lela Marie (Pearson) Easter

   "You are part of a puzzle in someone's life, 
You may never know where you fit,
But someone's life may never be complete, without you in it."

     Today, we pause to pay tribute to the memory of Lela Marie Pearson Easter, who was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, friend and co-worker.  She was one who loved her family with all her heart, and not only nurtured her family, but enriched the lives of many.  
     Lela began her journey through life on Wednesday, June 9, 1937, in Deer Park, New Jersey, as she was born into the loving care of Jessie and Mattie Mitchell Pearson.  She was educated in the Camden County School System; graduating from Camden County Regional High School - class of 1955.  Seeing the need to further her education, she pursued a degree in the field of Nursing. For some time, she was employed with the State of New Jersey, as a Nurse.   
     As life progressed, in 1956,  Lela met the love of her life, Edward Richard Easter.  In 1957, they united in Holy Matrimony.  Together they settled in Emporia, Virginia and started a family of their own. This union was blessed with three children, that she held dear to her heart. Oh how she loved her husband and children immensely; making  sacrifices daily to ensure their well-being.    
      "Train up a child in the way they should go, And when they are old they will not depart from it." (Proverbs 22: 6)  Reflecting on her Christian upbringing, Lela decided  to surrender her life to Christ and become a member of the Rising Star Baptist Church of Ante, Virginia.  She believed in God; the Father Almighty, who created heaven and earth.  She possessed strong faith in Christ and did not waiver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, always acknowledging His presence.  As Lela and Edward sought better employment opportunities to provide for their family, they relocated to Richmond.  While there, they became watchcare members of the Fifth Baptist Church.  
     Affectionately called Marie by many and  commonly known as 'Lily' to others; she was gainfully employed with the Medical College of Virginia-Hospital, Richmond.  Lela embodied a strong work ethic in the  jobs that she took on to help provide for her family.  Her employment was not viewed as mere work, but as a place where she could explore her passion, be herself and embrace those around her with love. For more than 38 years, she served as a X-ray File Clerk, before retiring in 2003.  In her pastimes, Lela  could often be found reading a good book or completing one of her many jigsaw puzzles.  
     "Who can find a virtuous woman? She is worth far more than rubies." (Proverbs 31:10)  Lela's qualities of hard work, fear of God, respect she had for her husband, foresight, encouragement, care for others, concern for the poor and love for her family, all led her to a life of enjoyment, honor and worth.   Yes, Lela was the epitome of "A Virtuous Woman".  Although she was a very quiet and easy going person, the values and principles she instilled will leave a permanent impression in the hearts of all she touched.  Her love for  family empowered her to leave them with these parting words: "No time to cry, Don't shed a tear, I am with God, In spirit I am here. I've kept the faith, My spirit is light, I am at peace now, I fought the good fight."
     Lela authentically and genuinely cared about her family, as she endeavored to inspire them to reach their greatest potential.  She desired for them to be and to do nothing different than their true purpose and calling in life. Family meant EVERYTHING to her!  She had a unique love for each of her family members; caring and providing for them individually.   She taught her children and grandchildren, to NEVER complain; instead, be GRATEFUL, for there is always someone less fortunate than you and would love to have what you have. 

     "When peace like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll, Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul." On Monday, March 9, 2020, while in the serenity of her home, Lela recalled the refrain "It is well, it is well with my soul" and crossed the great divide, exchanging life for eternal rest. Her seeds are well-sown; her service on earth is complete, and she now experiences the victory and triumph of eternal life. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by: eight siblings,  Inna Smith, Jessie Mae Pearson, Beatrice Pearson, Delores Daniels, Eva Pearson, William 'Bill' Pearson, James Pearson and Andrew Pearson.
     Though the clouds may hang over, there will be a brighter day.  In that land, they call heaven, God shall wipe all tears away. We, who are bound by treasured ties of love and affection as we pass her to God's keeping:    her husband of 62 years,, Edward Richard Easter, Sr.  of the home; three children, Sharon Annette Crump (George) of Quinton, Virginia, Joyce Walker (Willie) of Kingsland, Georgia and Edwards R. Easter, Jr. of Richmond, Virginia; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; three brothers, Jesse Pearson of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, George Pearson of New Jersey and Stanley Pearson (Rhonda) of Charlotte, North Carolina; a host of other relatives and friends.  

The Management and Staff of Knox-High Mortuary, Inc. is privileged to provide

"Distinctive Services, With The Essence Of Excellence"

to the family of Mrs. Lela Marie Pearson Easter.

We ask that you join us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer. 

 "Diligent in Business; Fervent in Spirit." - Romans: 12:11

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