It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Pearl Georgiana Jenkins, a beloved retired high
school English teacher at Burke High School. Pearl departed this world on January 1, 2024,
leaving behind a legacy of dedication, compassion, and an enduring love for education.

Pearl graduated from SC State University with a Bachelor of Arts in English, where she laid the
foundation for her lifelong passion for literature and education. Over three decades, she
dedicated her career to shaping young minds at Burke High School, leaving an indelible mark on
her students and colleagues alike.

Upon her well-deserved retirement, Pearl embarked on a new chapter in her life, embracing a
successful career in real estate. Her enthusiasm and work ethic were evident in this second
career as she applied the same tenacity and care that had made her an exceptional educator.
Pearl's transition into the world of real estate demonstrated her unwavering determination to
explore new horizons and make a positive impact in various aspects of life.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Pearl's heart overflowed with love for children. She
served on the Foster Care Review Board for 10 years, where her commitment to ensuring the
well-being of foster children shone brightly. Her kindness extended beyond her own home as
she provided a loving environment for those in need.

In addition to her dedication to fostering, Pearl enriched the community by serving as a docent
for Middleton Place Gardens, sharing her passion for nature and history with visitors. She also
played a crucial role as a historian for the Philip Simmons Foundation, contributing to the
preservation of cultural heritage and showcasing her deep appreciation for the arts.

Pearl's nurturing spirit, combined with her boundless generosity, created a lasting impact on
the lives of those she touched. Her legacy will live on not only in the hearts of her former
students but also in the lives of her children and all those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Left to cherish her memory are those of her children; Dion Jenkins of Charleston, Kimberly
Jenkins of Charlotte, NC; her siblings, Estelle Artis (Theodore) of Wilson, NC, Delores Garland
(James deceased) of Richmond, Va., John H. Jenkins (Jeanette) of Stockton, Ca., Irving Jenkins of
Charleston and Nathaniel Jenkins (Sallie) of Apopka, FL, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins,
family, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Francis Jenkins and Estelle
Chisolm Jenkins, and her brother Frank Jenkins.

Walk-Through Viewing
Friday, January 12, 2024
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Smith-McNeal Funeral Home, Inc.
2119 Dorchester Rd, North Charleston, SC 29405

Celebration of Life Service
Saturday, January 13, 2024
1:00 PM
St. John's Reformed Episcopal Church
91 Anson Street, Charleston, SC 29401
Deacon Matthew W. Jeffcoat, Interim Pastor

Interment:
New Webster United Methodist Church Cemetery
4755 Bears Bluff Road
Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487