Mother Lillie Pearl Maddox was born to the late Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher (Eva Mae) Smith on Nov. 18, 1926, in Newton County.

Pearl attended Newton County Public Schools and became a faithful member of James Paschal Missionary Baptist Church at an early age.  She loved her church and proudly served on the usher board and mother’s board and was the oldest living member until her death. 

She was a great cook, and was known for making the best brunswick stew and collard greens.  She has always had a big heart for helping her family and those in need.  Mother Pearl loved watching the Atlanta Braves or the “Boys” as she called them, and her soap operas.  She touched many, young and old, and will be greatly missed. 

On Nov. 10, 2017, she peacefully and gracefully transitioned as only she could.  Pearl was preceded in death by her husband, Walter John Maddox; her son, James “Bear Cat” Maddox; step-son, Walter Maddox, Jr.; step-daughter, Shirley Clark; granddaughter, Cheryl Grier; sisters, Gladys Smith and Bessie Banks; brothers, Willie Tom Smith, Fletcher Smith, Jr., Eddie Smith and Jessie Smith.

She leaves to cherish her memories, daughters, Eva Louise Grier, Alan (Betty) Bridges, Oscar (Janice) Usher; sons, Mozell (Mary) Smith, Charles Maddox, Johnny (Johnell) Maddox, Dennis Ray (Maxine) Maddox, Billy (Teresa) Maddox; step-daughter, Donna Maddox; daughter-in-law, Vickie Maddox; her loving sister, Ollie Mae Russell; sister-in-law, Kathryn Smith; godsons, Johnnie Rufus Rakestraw and James Henry Lee. She was truly blessed to see six generations which included, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, great-great-great-grandchildren. She also leaves to cherish her love a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and caring friends. 

Funeral services were held Thursday, Nov. 16, 2017 at 12 p.m. at James Paschal Missionary Baptist Church, at 651 Highway 142, in Covington, with Rev. Dwayne Stephens officiating.