Pearline Mae James

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Pearline Mae James, a beloved matriarch whose life was a testament to love, strength, and family devotion. Pearline, affectionately known as a pillar of strength and warmth, was born on March 23, 1942, in the serene town of Lake Charles, Louisiana. She departed this world on April 30, 2026, at the age of 84, enveloped in the love of her family, as she had always cherished. Pearline was the cherished wife of the late John L. James, with whom she shared over 40 years of a beautiful marriage, built on the solid foundations of love, commitment, and togetherness. Together, they created a legacy of family bonds that have and will continue to endure through the generations. She leaves behind a loving family who will forever carry her memory in their hearts: her devoted daughter, Tina Ann James, and her treasured grandchildren, Ashley Samuels, Chelsea James, Tyler Touissant, Anthony James, Damion Williams, Janquez Mathis, Jamichael Gordon, Hezikiah Furlough, Nani Touissant, and Calvin Couzen. Pearline also takes pride in her 31 great-grandchildren, whose lives she touched with her boundless love and affection. Preceding her in death are her beloved grandsons, Courtney Rucker and Isaiah Rucker; her sisters, Leena Fortune and Anna Mae Pike; her granddaughter Alicia Murray; and her husband, John L. James, whose memories Pearline held close to her heart. Her extended family, including nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who became family, will dearly miss her presence. Throughout her working life, Pearline dedicated herself to supporting her family with the same commitment she brought to every area of her life. Known for her unwavering dependability and work ethic, she was a quiet force of nature, ensuring that everything she touched was done with grace and diligence. However, her true fulfillment came from being a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend — roles in which she thrived and found her greatest joy. Pearline had a true passion for bringing her family together, often found in the kitchen cooking up meals that were as comforting as her embrace. Her home was a haven of laughter, love, and warmth — a testament to her nurturing spirit. Her life was a beacon of care and generosity, always ensuring her loved ones felt supported and cherished. A celebration of Pearline’s life will take place on May 2, 2026, at 12:48 PM at Hixson Funeral Home of Lake Charles. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has offered love, support, and kindness during this time of bereavement. Your gestures of empathy have been a source of strength and comfort to us all. As we say goodbye to Pearline Mae James, we hold onto the words, “To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.” Her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those she loved, and her legacy will endure through the generations of family she so dearly cherished. Pearline’s life was marked by her quiet strength, her generous heart, and her unwavering devotion to family. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.