Chesapeake - Mrs. Pearly M. Hayslett Edwards closed her eyes to be with her Lord and Savior for the final time in this world on January 20, 2011. Mrs. Edwards lived her life giving selfless service to others during her 88 years in this life. Mrs. Edwards was the matriarch of the Hayslett family after the passing of her eldest sister, Marian Hayslett Richardson. She was born on May 28, 1922 to John and Mattie Hayslett. She was married to James Edwards who passed away on July 1, 1989. She is survived by her two sons, James R. Edwards (Emerita Edwards) of Chesapeake, Virginia and Wayne T. Edwards (Darlene Edwards) of Owings Mills, Maryland. She was the matriarch of three brothers, James E. Hayslett of Durham, NC, John Hayslett (deceased) and Milton Hayslatt of Severna Park, MD and two sisters, Jeanette Hayslett Wallace and Geraldine Hayslett Thomas Boone both of Chesapeake, VA. In addition she is survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Pearl, the name her family and friends called her, was a graduate of Virginia State College. She completed her advance studies from Columbia University. Pearl taught in the Chesapeake school system for more than 30 years. During that time, she also served as a guidance counselor at Western Branch Junior High School. She was very active at First Baptist Church, Berkley in numerous auxiliaries. She taught Sunday school, sang in the Diamond Jubilee Choir, and she was the Chairman of the Deaconess board for many years. Outside of the church she was an active working member of the Phi Delta Kappa Sorority, assisted and supported the Xinos, active financial member of the Virginia State University Alumni Association and a Board member of the Chesapeake Civic Chorus to mention a few. Pearl lived her life giving and contributing to others to strive and achieve higher education while supporting the Arts. She touched the lives of many in a positive way. She will be missed but will live on in the hearts and minds of everyone she touched. To God Be the Glory for allowing us to cross paths with Pearl. It will be a glorious time when we all join together in that marvelous Family Reunion which she will make sure everything is done in grace and order.

The funeral will be held on Saturday, January 29, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church, Berkley, 706 Berkley Avenue, Norfolk where Rev. William D. Tyree, III will Officiate. Burial will follow at Roosevelt Memorial Park. Viewing will be held Friday from 3-7pm at Pretlow and Sons Funeral Home, Chesapeake. You may offer condolences to the family at www.pretlowandsons.com .