Pearly Mae Hawks of Rockford departed this earthly life August 4, 2023. She was born June 3, 1941 in Tutwiler, MS the daughter of Harry and Mattie Thompson. Pearly lived in Rockford most of her life coming from Mississippi. She married Archie Hawks, March 26, 1966, he preceded her in death. Pearly was employed as manager of Operator services by AT&T, 30 years before retiring. She was a member of the Winnebago County Board, 13 years retiring in 2012 and served on the Winnebago County Housing Board, and many more committees wanting to serving her community any way she could.  Pearly was the owner and operator of Matties Four Seasons Boutique. She was a member of Miles Memorial C.M.E. Church, serving in the choir. Pearly graduated from West High School and attended Rock Valley College.

Pearly leaves to cherish many loving memories,  her daughter, Shala Thompson; special son, Eddie (Michelle) Straight;  three grandchildren, Ashley, Deshawn and Ashayla; sister Vickie Thompson; god children, Sean (Susan) Harris, Richard Newborn Jr, and Kayla Dean; a host of nieces, nephews cousins other relatives and friends. She was predeceased by her husband, Archie; parents; two sisters, Vera and Belinda; many special aunts and uncles. Special thanks to Maurice Williams, Russell Barbary, Cassandra Hawks, Johnella McIntosh, Cheryl Cooper, and her Miles Memorial C.M.E. Church family and everyone who checked on her regularly.

Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, August 18, 2023 at Pilgrim Baptist Church 1703 S. Central Ave. Burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Arrangements completed by Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave.