House Resolution 19

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION MOURNING THE LOSS AND COMMEMORATING THE LIFE, LEGACY, AND SERVICE OF MRS. MARY LEE PEARSON-FINCH, AND EXPRESSING DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER FAMILY AND FRIENDS UPON HER PASSING.

WHEREAS, it is written in II Corinthians 4:17-18, "For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal," and as such, the immaculate author and finisher of our soul's destiny summoned the mortal presence of dearly beloved, Mrs. Mary Lee Pearson-Finch, to eternal rest on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, rendering great sorrow and loss to her family and many friends; and

WHEREAS, the City of Laurel and the entirety of Jones County, Mississippi, lost a revered community pillar, with the passing of Mrs. Pearson-Finch, born on February 7, 1922, to her late parents, Mr. Johnny and Mrs. Lola Jordan, in Jones County, Mississippi, and there is now a hush in our hearts as we come together to pay our respects to the memory of one who has been called to join that innumerable heavenly caravan; and

WHEREAS, raised with a foundation of integrity, love, kindness, and compassion imparted by her parents, Mrs. Pearson-Finch confessed a hope in Christ under the Methodist faith, uniting with the Sunlight Baptist Church before later becoming a devoted member of Providence Baptist Church, where she faithfully served on the Mother's Board, as a Sunday School teacher, in the Women's Missionary Society, as President, and as a member of the senior and combined choirs; and

WHEREAS, initially educated at home before enrolling in Friendship School in the Hoy Community, Mrs. Pearson-Finch excelled academically, being named valedictorian of her 8th grade class and achieving high honors before transferring to Oak Park High School in Laurel, where she endured the setback of being placed in 9th grade upon transfer but persevered to graduate in 1945; and

WHEREAS, a well-rounded student, Mrs. Pearson-Finch distinguished herself not only in academics but also as a star basketball player and choir singer alongside future operatic legend Leontyne Price; and

WHEREAS, her life's journey was blessed with the love and partnership of Mr. Elijah Pearson, whom she wed in 1945, and together they built a lifetime of memories and a legacy of love with nine children until his passing, and who, in divine providence, was fortunate to experience love again with Mr. Alonzo Finch, whom she married in 1990, sharing life's joys and companionship until his passing in 2003; and

WHEREAS, a diligent worker and provider, Mrs. Pearson-Finch dedicated herself to supporting her family through employment with the Mayhall Canning Plant, Jones County Community Hospital (now South Central Regional Medical Center), Hilburn Poultry (now Wayne Poultry) and Masonite Hospital before concluding her working career with a 15-year return to Jones County Community Hospital, retiring in 1986; and

WHEREAS, an enterprising spirit even in retirement, Mrs. Pearson-Finch co-founded "Triple M Catering" with her daughters, showcasing her renowned baking skills before ultimately retiring a second time to enjoy fishing, quilting and watching TV game shows; and

WHEREAS, the matriarch of her family, Mrs. Pearson-Finch remained the nucleus and foundation of an unbreakable bond of love, honor, devotion and encouragement, sharing her wisdom and experiences while crediting her longevity to unwavering faith in God; and

WHEREAS, though she has traversed life's river to now stand

upon the celestial shores in wonderment of Heaven's grandeur in

glorious reunion with the kindred spirits of loved ones who

transitioned before her, the memories of Mrs. Pearson-Finch will continue to flourish in the hearts and lives of all who knew her, especially her children and grandchildren; and

WHEREAS, we encourage the Pearson-Finch family to find solace from these words recorded in II Corinthians 1:3-4, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God."; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to commend the monumental life of genuine individuals like Mrs. Pearson-Finch, whose life was a testament to faith, family and community, which struck a melodious chord with all she encountered along her earthly sojourn:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby mourn the loss, commemorate the life, service and legacy of Mrs. Mary Lee Pearson-Finch, and express deepest sympathy to her family and friends upon her passing.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the family of Mrs. Mary Lee Pearson-Finch and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.