Pearl West Simpkins , beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away on September 7, 2024. Born on October 22, 1935, in South Philadelphia to Edward and Alice West, Pearl was the second child and the only daughter in a family of six. Her early years were marked by a loving, bustling household where she was cherished by her family and took on the role of second mother to her younger brothers.

Pearl grew up in North Philadelphia after her family moved from Naudain Street in South Philadelphia. She attended Kensington High School, an all-girls institution at the time, but had to pause her education to help her mother with her younger siblings. She later completed her diploma with the encouragement of her three eldest children.

Pearl's professional journey was diverse and impactful. She worked at Philco Ford Company, Campbell Soup Company, and the US Postal Service before transitioning to the nursing and mental health fields, where she retired as a Psychiatric Technician. Her passion for service and care was evident throughout her career.

In her personal life, Pearl was a remarkably skilled and creative individual. With no formal training, she became the go-to hair stylist and seamstress for family, friends, and neighbors. She crafted everything from prom dresses to outfits for her son's singing group, and later, explored crochet and plastic canvas, creating a wide array of beautiful, functional items. A music lover, Pearl filled her home with the joyful sounds of Sam Cooke and used music to make chores more enjoyable for her children.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life; she dedicated herself by water baptism to become one of Jehovah's Witnesses in 1971 and became a pillar in her congregation, known for her kindness, hospitality, and sound advice. In 1982, she became a pioneer and dedicated the next five years to spending 90 hours each month in ministry, sharing with anyone who would listen about God's Kingdom and the future blessings it holds for mankind. Pearl was incredibly dedicated and adaptive in her ministry. Even as she faced physical limitations, she found new ways to support her group's efforts and maintain her passion for preaching. Opening her home for phone witnessing and letter writing allowed others to contribute in ways that suited their circumstances, keeping the spirit of her ministry alive and inclusive.

Pearl was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Alice West; her brothers Robert, Joseph, William, who is survived by his wife Richardine (Deanie) West and Ronald, who is survived by his wife, Lorrine West (Peanut). She is survived by her only living brother David West and his wife Patricia West, as well as her children: Joseph West (Skeeter) and his wife Lorraine West, Patricia West (Sissy), James West (Jimmy) and his wife Tonya West, Linda Simpkins (Babes), and Dechanta Simpkins (Dee). She also leaves behind her grandchildren: Tawana West-Bradley, Alisha West-Thomas and her husband Tyrone Thomas, Kesha West-Lewis and her husband Jeremiah Lewis, Kia West-Reid and her husband Saleem Reid, Syreeta West, Christopher West and his wife Stacey West, Jamie West, and Javon Simpkins-Avery. Her great-grandchildren include Alana and David Bradley, Jasmine Thomas and Christopher Thompson, Nasir Lewis, Amiyah and Samir Reid, Siddiq West, and Leilani, Geovanni, and Eli Avery. Her great-great-grandchild is Sabur West.

Pearl's legacy lives on through her family, friends, and the countless lives she touched with her love, creativity, and faith. She will be dearly missed but fondly remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family and her faith in Jehovah God.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, September 22, 2024 at 4:00 pm at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 4450 Oakland Street, Building A, Philadelphia, PA 19124.

Arrangements by: Anders-Detweiler Funeral Home & Crematory, 130 East Broad Street, Souderton, PA 18964. To send online condolences to the family, visit www.andersfh.com .

What YOU thought of Pearl:

"She was a wonderful woman loved by many and will not be forgotten"

"She gave me some of the best advice regarding seeking a marriage mate. She was right too."

"She has always given love, patience and understanding to any and every one she has ever come across. I hope we can do a fraction as much to influence people as positively as she has."

"Mama Pearl was a special lady."

"Mama Pearl was an amazing sister and taught me so much."

"Mama Pearl was the best Mom I ever met."

"She left a special and loving imprint on my life."

"I always enjoyed talking with her."

"Mama Pearl was a sweet woman."

"We loved her as a Mom."

"Age is irrelevant; it's always too soon."

"Cousin Pearl will really be missed."

"Mama Pearl is just that – a real gem."

"She was such a beautiful person inside and out."

"I hope you know that Mama Pearl has always held a special place in my heart."

"I'm heartbroken over her loss. Such a beautiful sister. We will miss her dancing."

"I have so many great memories with Mama Pearl. Can't wait to see her again."

Endearing Nicknames:

Mom Pearl, Mama Pearl, Auntie Pearl, Pearl Grandmom, Gates, Momma Simpkins

Acknowledgements:

The family of Pearl Simpkins extends our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to everyone who has supported us during this time of loss. Your acts of kindness, comforting words, and prayers have been a great source of solace and are deeply cherished. Our "one of a kind" loved one will be remembered forever in our hearts.