Pearl Hill

Pearl Marie Hill, a loving beacon of kindness and care, was called home to the Lord on September 29, 2026, at the age of 84. Born on August 12, 1942, to the late William and Mable Bell, Pearl was a resilient woman with an unwavering spirit that shone through in every chapter of her life. From her humble beginnings on the farm to her time managing Handy Mart convenience stores, Pearl's life was an expression of her faith and her deep love for others.

As Pearl navigated the diverse landscapes of life, her journey was marked by a warm, gentle spirit that was infectious to everyone she met. She was a woman of many talents - a loving mother, a caring grandmother, and an invaluable friend. Her resilience could be seen in the way she managed the family fruit stand in Bridgeton with her late husband, Bill Anderson. Later in life, she relocated to Oklahoma, living with her beloved daughter, Letha Ryan, and her family. Regardless of where life took her, Pearl's vibrant character remained constant. Whether she was doing laundry, cooking for her loved ones, or engaging in her favorite pastimes - watching soap operas, Hallmark Christmas movies, or listening to southern gospel music - Pearl's zest for life was unmistakable.

Pearl was the embodiment of love and kindness, a truth that resonated in the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. In the words of the Apostle Paul, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud." (1 Corinthians 13:4). Pearl Hill was a living testament to this verse.

Pearl is survived by her daughter, Letha Ryan (Mark); stepdaughters, Frances Kite and Annette Warren; her grandchildren, Wesley Willis (Tammy), Stephanie Brown (Curtis), Courtney Smith (Dominic), Jade Ellis (Dillon), and Amber Ryan (fiancé Kasheem Reid); great grandchildren, Chelsey Ridings (Jacob), Wesley Willis, Jr., Layla Forbis, Pearl Brown, Addison Smith, Wyatt Brown, Riley Smith, Blakely Smith, Raylan Ellis; former son-in-law, Steven Simpson; and numerous step-grandchildren and great grandchildren; and one great great grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William Bell and Mable Riggs; husbands, Will "Bill" Anderson and Lewis Hill; brothers, Alvin Bell, Herbert Bell, and Jessie Bell; sisters, Lila Mae Bell and Eula Gray Dugee; daughter, Annie Gaskins; step-daughter, Judy Gladson; step-sons, Billy Anderson, Jack Anderson, Joe Anderson, George Anderson; granddaughter, Paige Ryan; and great grandson John Reid.

Family and friends are invited to a celebration of Pearl's life from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, October 4, 2026 at the New Bern Shrine Club, 2102 South Glenburnie Road, New Bern, NC 28562.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that contributions be made to Trisomy 18 Foundation (trisomy18.org)

We invite all who knew and loved Pearl to share their precious memories of her on the memorial page and to upload photos that celebrate her remarkable life. As we remember and honor Pearl's legacy, let us be inspired by her steadfast faith, her enduring love for her family, and her unwavering commitment to serving others.

Bennett Funeral & Cremation Care is honored to serve the family and friends of Pearl Hill.