Beverly Pearson passed away on Friday, January 3, 2020 after battling breast cancer. She was surrounded by her loved ones. Born in the Bronx to Paul and Doris Wise, she grew up with her brother Phil, and surrounded by cousins, aunts, and uncles.
Bev worked in a number of different industries; she modeled, catered parties, was an assistant at Marsh Animal Hospital and finally, worked for Essex County. An avid animal lover, Bev adopted and cared for cats throughout her life. She also volunteered countless hours at the Montclair College Woman’s Club, which raises funds for women’s college scholarships.
Although Bev enjoyed all conventional physical activities, especially gardening and power-walking through the park, she was always open to trying new things. She loved donning the newest fashions and did so with breezy confidence. She took ballet and jazz dance classes, baked, sewed, crocheted, did needlepoint art, and even rolled candles and made sand art, which she would sell at the Flemington Flea Market. She enjoyed museums, plays and concerts of all types, but could have just as much fun at a biker bar, on the boardwalk enjoying Italian ices or sitting on her deck sipping a cup of tea. She loved all of the old classic movies, but would also get caught up watching the schmaltz on the Hallmark channel.
Beverly was a gifted chef and enjoyed cooking almost as much as watching others enjoy her creations. She loved throwing dinner parties and always planned extravagant meals that challenged her range of expertise. From Greek to Italian, French to Middle Eastern, she especially excelled in Chinese cooking. Except for the Peking duck debacle, which caught on fire and burned to a crisp, and her first attempt at matzo balls, which required two adults to carry them to the trash, Bev’s artistry in the kitchen was exceptional.
Bev is survived by her daughters Jessica Pearson (Jack McEvoy) and Victoria Pearson, her brother, Phillip Wise, sister-in-law Anne Wise, and loving nephews Peter (Deborah Nilson), Randy (Christine), and niece Abby Wise. Her love and joy of life was spending time with her partner Wulf Sonne.
A private family gathering has been planned to celebrate her life. Please consider a donation in her memory to the Verona Rescue Squad.
