Pearlie Strong

Pearlie Virginia Porter Strong, age 97, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2022, at Island Home Park Health and Rehab.  She was a beautiful person loved and adored by all who knew her. Pearlie was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, mother-in-law, cousin, friend and Christian.

She was born July 19, 1924, in Knoxville, Tennessee to the late Frank Porter and Millie Badgett Porter.  She was the youngest of five children: Hazel Porter, James Porter, Lorene Gamble, and Mary Frances Smith.

Pearlie was united in marriage to the late William H. Strong, Sr. and two sons: Stanley A. and William H. Jr. were born to this union.  She graduated from Austin High School in 1942 and went to work as Office Administrator for the late Dr. Walter S.E. Hardy. 

She was an active and faithful member of McDonald Drive Church of Christ until her health declined.

Pearlie was kind, quiet, generous, thoughtful and loyal.  Her legacy will live on in us as we reflect on her 97 years of life- especially in her willingness to feed and care for others.

She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings and two granddaughters: Jesslyn Strong and Tonya Mathews; great-grandson Trey Mitchell and many other beloved relatives, extended family, and friends.

Pearlie is survived by her loving and devoted sons: Stanley (Janell) Strong; William (Janice) Strong, Jr., special niece Jacquelyn Smith, Knoxville, TN; grandchildren: Eric Burroughs, Ypsilanti, MI; Angela (Glenn) Marrow, Memphis, TN; Jaleece Strong and Jennifer Strong, both of Knoxville, TN; Stephanie (Carl) Edmondson, Jr., Nashville, TN; sister-in-law: Eugenia Strong, Knoxville, TN; and a host of great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends.

Wednesday, January 12, 2022, a public walkthrough is scheduled from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at McDonald Drive Church of Christ, 3800 McDonald Rd., Knoxville, TN.  Social distancing and face coverings required.  The funeral service will follow for immediate family and close friends.  Minister Eric Bonner officiating.  Interment at Crestview Cemetery, 2949 Keith Avenue, Knoxville, TN, where a white dove release will conclude the service.  Flowers may be delivered to the church prior to the walkthrough.  Professional arrangements entrusted to Patton Funeral Home, Brian L. Buckmon, LFD 1-800-824-8283 or www.pattonfuneralhome1962.com

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