Pauline M Whitehead

Pauline M. Whitehead was blessed to depart this life on August 2, 2021, in the comfort of her home.  The bible clearly tells us in John 11:25…..that “Whosoever liveth and believeth in me  shall never die!’  Our hearts are saddened by the passing of our dear sister…..Sis. Pauline…..BUT we know a God…who in His own way and for His purpose, has reached down into our garden and called his servant Pauline!  He gave her to us for 72 years but now he wants her to rest with Him!          

Pauline was born April 16, 1949, In Indianapolis, IN to the late Willie Matthew, Sr., and Orvella Matthews.  At a young age, she accepted Christ as her personal savior and was baptized at Spring Chapel Baptist Church in Purvis, MS. Her strong faith carried her through the many battles with her medical issues and life’s tribulations!  Sis. Whitehead received her formal education and was a graduate of John Jefferson High School in Purvis, MS  where she was hailed “The Best Drum Major”!  At the tender age of Eighteen she was united in Holy Matrimony to Johnnie Whitehead, Sr., this union was blessed with three sons.   Pauline was a trail-blazer and became the first African American to work in the Department of Human Services in Lamar County, MS, The family relocated to Benton Harbor in 1979 and Pauline continued her Christian work throughout the community and schools and was always supportive of the youth and their activities….in school and in her church!  She was a familiar face at many of youth sports community activities encouraging the young people.   Her knowledge and work ethics lead her to be employed by the Montessori School, Birtch Printer’s, Rite Aide as a pharmacy tech, and a substitute teacher in the Benton Harbor Area School District until her health declined.   

She leaves to mourn her passing and celebrate her life:  Her companion of nearly 40 years, Edward Johnson; 3 sons:  Johnnie (Fiancée Kim Isom), Gregory De-Wayne (Seanetta), Corey (Fiancée Janet Joseph); A Love adopted daughter: Fanchon Carter; 8 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; 2 Sisters:  Gloria Jean Matthews of Benton Harbor, Rev. Betty Lott of Ohio; 1 brother:  Willie C. Matthews of Germany; 1 Uncle, Mitchell Rogers of Benton Harbor; a God-daughter, Ivy Sewell and a host niece, nephews, cousins  and friends.    She was preceded in death by her parents, and a brother Robert Charles Matthews.   Our beloved Pauline fought a good fight…she finished her course and kept the faith and there is a crown of righteousness awaiting her.  

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