08/19/2025
Pearl was born in Moscow, Arkansas, on August 26, 1932. She was a twin and the firstborn of eight children to the late Gladys Smith and the late Felix Brown Sr. She was preceded in death�by her siblings Dorothy Brown (Forrest), Versie Spriggs (Wesley), Felix Brown Jr., Louis Brown, and James Brown (Barbara).
At the age of seven, Pearl’s family relocated to Little Rock, Arkansas. She often reminisced about those years, recalling how everyone had chores. Hers included sewing and styling�her siblings’ hair—tasks she much preferred over cooking, which she openly admitted she did not enjoy. Pearl excelled in school and showed an early flair for creativity and precision. She worked in her father’s cleaning business and later as a seamstress for the Oppenheimer Garment Factory. Known for her impeccable style and eye for design, Pearl was the go-to person for custom-made clothing, curtains, and drapes.
At just 4’11”, she tailored all her own clothes. Pearl accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Miles Memorial C.M.E. Church. Throughout her life, her faith deepened, guiding her through trials and triumphs. She spread the Word of God by sharing scriptures, inspirational poems, and uplifting stories with everyone she met.
Pearl married Mr. Cleo, and to that union, they had a son who tragically passed away in infancy. She later married Paul Sims, and together they had their only child, Dwight Sims. Pearl would go on to marry Henry Daniels and, lastly, James January. Pearl cherished her siblings, especially the close bond she shared with her sisters. After their mother’s passing, she helped raise her youngest brother, Clyde, whom he lovingly referred to as his “Sister-Moma.”
Determined to further her education, Pearl attended the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, where she earned her degree as a Registered Nurse. Balancing work and school was no easy feat, but Pearl persevered. She began her career at St. Vincent Hospital as an LPN before completing her RN program. While there, she purchased her first new car, a 1967 Camaro, thanks to a personal recommendation from the Head Sister (Nun) to the dealership. Pearl was among the few Black nurses who integrated St. Vincent during the era of desegregation brought about by the Civil Rights Act.
She later worked at the VA Hospital in Little Rock until the age of 41, when she transferred to the VA Hospital in Washington, D.C., where she lived for about ten years. Pearl then moved to�Memphis, Tennessee, and worked at Shelby County Hospital until her retirement. Even after retiring, she continued her calling as a live-in caregiver for several years before fully stepping away from nursing.
In 2002, Pearl moved into Poston Senior Apartments, where she lived for 14 years. As President of the Senior Organization, she was instrumental in creating programs such as “Senior Crime Stoppers” and organizing community events. She also began a monthly birthday celebration for all residents, lifting morale and building a sense of community.
Pearl’s greatest joy in life was her son, Dwight, for whom she prayed daily. In 2016, she moved to Detroit, Michigan, to live with him. There, she assisted in his group homes, mentoring staff, supporting clients, and continuing to inspire those around her through her unwavering faith. She was a shining example of perseverance for her granddaughters, and she found great pride in seeing Dwight’s growth and maturity.
On Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 1:30 a.m. at Providence Hospital in Southfield, Michigan, Pearl made her transition. To say she will be deeply missed is an understatement. She was the matriarch of our Michigan family, a pillar of love, wisdom, and faith.
Pearl leaves to cherish her memory: her beloved son, Dwight Sims Rashad (Nancy); her granddaughters, Kelli Horton, Sameerah Rashad (Brandon), and Ameena Rashad; great-grandchildren, Darmar’yon, Datavi’yon, Dai’yona, Jerome, DeTwane Jr., and Dior; great-great-granddaughter, DemiRose; her twin brother, Earl Brown (Sandra); and her youngest brother, Clyde Brown. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
To watch the funeral live, Click the link below:
Topic: Homegoing Celebration for Pearl Brown-January�
Time: Aug 23, 2025 10:30 AM Central Time (US and Canada)�
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