Angela Jane Pearson

Former Mayor and Ward 1 Councilwoman, Angela Jane (Cox) Pearson, 32, of Poplar Bluff, Mo., passed away Saturday, January 2, 2016, at her home surrounded by loved ones, following a 9-month battle with stage 4 melanoma cancer. Angela was born March 18, 1983 in Kingsport, Tn. She was largely known by the community as the youngest mayor in Poplar Bluff history, loved by many for her outspoken approach to local politics. To her close family and friends, however, she was a dedicated mother, a skilled social worker, a talented artist and a loyal, compassionate ally. From humble beginnings on the south side of Poplar Bluff, Angela’s work ethic started at the age of 15 when she began her first part-time job. Rather than spend all of her earnings on typical teenage whims, she used much of her income to assist her family with groceries, clothing and other expenses. At the age of 16, Angela met her future spouse, Julian Pearson, at a birthday party for a friend. By the time she graduated from Poplar Bluff High School in 2001, she had been accepted into Missouri S&T. She and Julian married the following June before relocating to Rolla where she earned her degree, Cum Laude, in Psychology and Art. Never one to shy away from a challenge, upon graduation Angela set out to make a difference through social work, resettling in Poplar Bluff with Julian where she earned the respect and love of her peers. Her work with her clients was very important to her, and undeniably aided by her creative mind. From a very young age, Angela won awards for her artistry, and eventually her abilities in custom framing. During the final months of her life, she found joy in creating new pieces for her friends and family to enjoy. The creations which gave her the most joy and in which she held the most pride, however, were her children, Noah Julian and Evangeline Grace. It was her honor and her greatest joy to share with her children her love of art, laughter and family. Angela will be survived by the loving memories of Evie and Noah, as well as those of her parents, Brenda and Bill Spencer, her friend and partner, Robert Duckett, her sister, Pamela Nunley, her brother, Ivan Cox, the father of her children, Julian Pearson, and a wealth of cherished extended family and friends within the community. Hers was a life too short, but well lived and always lovingly remembered. Visitation for Angela will begin at 6 p.m. Wednesday, January 6, 2016 at Fowler - Sullivan Funeral Home in Poplar Bluff. Funeral services will be held at 11a.m. Thursday, January 7, 2016 in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow at Browns Chapel Cemetery, Broseley, Mo. Contributions for her children can be made in care of their father, Julian Pearson.