Pearl Journagan

On April 28, 1925, Pearl Odell Wagley Journagan was born to Katie Beevers Wagley and John Sydney Wagley in their Forrest, New Mexico home. During her early years, Pearl attended school in Forrest where she met the love of her life, Robert Lemeul Journagan. Pearl and R. L. dedicated their lives to one another on June 27, 1942. Together Pearl and R. L. traveled and resided in various places throughout their marriage, and the pair soon found themselves in California. During World War II, Pearl began work making batteries at Douglas and Beech Aircraft while R. L. served in the Navy. Eventually, Pearl and R. L. settled in Grady, NM, where they continued to raise their family. Pearl and R. L. raised four children together until R. L.’s death on June 2, 1966. Then, as a single mother, Pearl moved her family to Clovis, NM, where she supported herself and her children by working as a teacher’s aide and selling shoes.

Throughout her life, Pearl could often be found reading, crocheting, birdwatching, and admiring green glassware, but she loved nothing more than spending time with her family. Whether at home or during her annual “ya-ya” trips, Pearl was always happiest when surrounded by those she loved.

After a lifetime of love and laughter, Pearl’s earthly journey came to an end. On December 17, 2020, Pearl passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home at the age of 95. Pearl’s beautiful laugh, warm affection, unwavering patience, and compassionate soul are just a few qualities her family and friends will forever cherish.

Pearl is survived by her children, Lynda White, Nancy Houston, and Bruce Journagan; her sons-in-law, Calvin White and Robert Houston; seven grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and 14 great-great-grandchildren.

Pearl was preceded in death by her mother, Katie Beevers Wagley; father, John Sydney Wagley; siblings Marie Hull, Mary-Lou Walker, Joanne Wagley, C.C. Wagley, and Leon Wagley; and her daughter, Susan Mote.

A viewing will be held in honor of Pearl at Steed-Todd Funeral Home in Clovis, NM, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Monday, December 21, 2020.