Mignonne Pearson
The family and friends of Mignonne Pearson are saddened to announce her passing on Monday morning, September 25.
We will be forever thankful for her extraordinary life and the joy she brought to others. Mignonne was a gifted artist, cook, Scout leader, gardener and equestrienne. For those of us lucky enough to have known her, knew a woman who sole joy was bringing happiness to everyone around her. Loving and unselfish, she was an excellent host, incomparable friend, and dedicated wife and mother. We will miss her big smile, hearty laugh and companionship.
Mignonne Carol Weber Pearson was born March 10, 1940, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The daughter of Jewette Price Weber and Shelby Delmar Weber, Mignonne graduated from Girls Preparatory School and the University of Chattanooga. At GPS, she excelled as a competitive horse jumper with the assist from her horse Dooley. At the University of Chattanooga, she was known for her abilities as a modern dancer. Mignonne married her college sweetheart, Mitchell Pearson.
Mignonne worked as a social worker, an artist, and a caterer while volunteering extensively in leadership roles with the Boy Scouts of America. Mignonne's skills were in demand as she ran the shooting sports program at Skymont Scout Reservation for two years, and then created their horse riding skills program. Nationally she went on to instruct other leaders and taught thousands of scouts proper firearm skills at multiple Scout Jamborees. She instructed cooking to adult leaders at the Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico. Her tireless work on behalf of the Scouts let to her selection into The Order of the Arrow and ultimately becoming a Brotherhood member. She was recognized nationally with the Silver Antelope award.
A crack shot, Mignonne retired from an undefeated five-woman skeet team. She was an excellent hunter, loved fishing and even built her own fishing rods. Mignonne served her community as the initial chair of the Scenic City Clay Arts board, a member of the Ladies of Charity board, and two-time president of both the Lookout Mountain Outlook Club and Fairyland Garden Club. For many years, Mignonne cooked and taught at the National Cornbread Festival. She authored two cookbooks.
Mignonne was predeceased by her husband, Mitchell, and son, Gregory.
She is survived by sons, Mitchell (Shannon), lan, and Randall (Carolyn), and by grandchildren, Nolen and Mady Claire Smith. Mignonne also served as volunteer godmother to Addaline Johnson Ellis.
Visitation will be held at 12 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 2, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church followed by funeral mass at 1 p.m. with Father JimVick officiating.
Burial at Forest Hills Cemetery will follow immediately after the service.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Ladies of Charity or The American Cancer Society.
Arrangements are by Wann Funeral & Cremation Center, at the foot of historic Lookout Mountain, St. Elmo, 423 821-7551.
Share your memories at wannfuneralhome.com.