With a heart full of faith and a life wrapped in grace, Pearl Lena Boston McDonald peacefully entered eternal rest on July 23, 2025. Born to the late Henry and Lena (McCloud) Boston on February 25, 1949, Pearl’s journey was marked by love, resilience, and an unwavering devotion to God and family.
A beacon of light in the Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church of Chipley, Florida, Pearl accepted Christ at an early age and dedicated her life to serving others. As a cherished member of the Usher Board, she greeted everyone with warmth and sincerity, offering not just a smile, but a spirit of genuine hospitality that reflected her deep faith. A proud alumna of Roulhac High School, Pearl exemplified a tenacious work ethic throughout her education and professional life, serving with distinction at Vanity Fair and West Point Stevens. In every role, she brought integrity, excellence, and a nurturing presence that elevated those around her.
Pearl’s life was beautifully entwined with that of her devoted husband, Charles McDonald, Sr., with whom she shared 55 years of loving marriage. Their union was a testament to enduring affection and mutual strength, inspiring generations to come. Together, they raised two sons: Charles McDonald, Jr. (Darlene) of Tallahassee, Florida, and Byron McDonald of Panama City, Florida. Pearl’s legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Ineeke McDonald, Charles (Bud) McDonald III, Precious McDonald, Mishelle McDonald, and Xavier Randolph all of Tallahassee, FL, Nyajah King of Palm Coast, FL, Jahaan King of Germany, Antonine Hopkins of Atlanta, Ga. and Donta Williams of Alabama; as well as five great-grandchildren: Roman McDonald and Preston McDonald of Perris, CA, Levi Hardmon and Jaylen Harrell of Tallahassee, FL and Braelynn McDonald of Atlanta, Ga.
She is fondly remembered by her siblings: Jeanetta McDonald (James), Willie Boston (Ollie), and Jake Boston (Rhonda); brother-in-law Chester Campbell; sister-in-law Vanna Boston, all of Chipley, FL and a host of nieces and nephews. Her extended family, church family, and countless friends mourn her passing yet rejoice in the profound impact she left upon their hearts. Further she leaves behind seven sisters-in-law by marriage: Shirley Harvey (Thomas) of Dothan, Alabama, Carol Lee of Panama City, Florida, Jean (Joseph) Morgan of Tallahassee, Florida, Donna (Ruben) Shine, Dorothy (Marcus) Mahone, Elanor Myers, all of Panama City, Florida, and Jameela Genell (Siddiq) As-Siddiq of Ft. Walton Beach, Florida; 4 brothers-in-law by marriage: James (Jeanetta) McDonald, of Chipley, Ellis Wade McDonald, Vickery McDonald, both of Vernon, and Eric (Beth) McDonald of Ft. Walton Beach.
Pearl was preceded in death by her parents; four sisters: Viola Wright (Dennie), Fannie Wilson (Rev. Price), Alice Boston, and Mary Campbell; five brothers: Frank Boston (Alzenia), Norman Boston, Donald Boston (Martha Jean), James Boston (Minnie) and Thomas Boston.
