PEARLINE HYACINTH VERONICA LAWRENCE (REID)
(Lucille Ione³ Hibbert, Solomon Augustus² Hibbert, Robert Aubrey Henry¹ Hibbert)
December 6, 1924 –

Pearline Hyacinth Veronica Lawrence was born on December 6, 1924, in Jamaica, at a time when the island was still a colony of Great Britain. She later married Fabian Ignatius Reid (December 15, 1920 – September 14, 1998), with whom she shared a long and devoted marriage.

Notes for Pearline Hyacinth Veronica Lawrence

Pearline was born into a world vastly different from the one we know today—a world shaped by colonial rule, limited mobility, and slower communication. In her early years, walking was the primary mode of transportation, and long-distance travel to places such as Miami, London, or New York required weeks by sea. Letters were written with pen and ink and could take over a month to reach their destination.

Over the course of her lifetime, she witnessed extraordinary global transformation—from the era of horse-drawn transport and sailing ships to the jet age and the modern digital world. She lived to see Jamaica gain independence, the rise of new global powers, and profound shifts in society, culture, and technology.

At a time when most women were expected to focus solely on homemaking, Pearline envisioned a broader path for herself. With determination and ambition, she pursued a career in education—an achievement of distinction during her era. She was accepted into St. Joseph’s Teachers’ College, where she trained for three years and earned her teaching certificate, a milestone she held in great pride.

She went on to teach at St. Anne’s Infant School for many years before traveling to England to further her studies. Upon her return, she served as Principal of St. Peter Claver School, shaping young minds and leaving a lasting impact on her community.

Pearline’s life, however, extended far beyond her professional accomplishments. She was a woman of many talents—an accomplished dressmaker, baker, and cook, skilled in embroidery, crocheting, and tatting. She embodied the balance of career, family, and craftsmanship that defined women of strength and versatility in her generation.

She shared a deep and loving bond with her husband, Fabian (“Iggy”), whose passing after nearly 50 years of marriage left a lasting void. Together, they raised five children, in whom she took immense pride, and she remains a devoted grandmother to her grandchildren.

Known for her quiet strength, dignity, and generosity, Pearline has always been a pillar of support within her family. Though reserved in nature, she consistently encouraged her children and extended family to strive for excellence and achievement. Her giving spirit is profound—never driven by material gain, but always by love and selflessness.

At the center of her life is her unwavering faith. A devout Roman Catholic, she has dedicated herself to the Church, serving faithfully as secretary of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church and continuing a life of service rooted in spiritual commitment.

Pearline Hyacinth Veronica Reid is a woman of substance and integrity—a devoted mother, grandmother, educator, and woman of God. Having lived through eras of war and peace, hardship and progress, she stands as a testament to resilience, faith, and purpose. Her life remains an enduring example for future generations.