Pearl Bryenton

Edith "Pearl" Bryenton (nee Manderville) born on August 3,1922, in Derby, New Brunswick, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories.  She was the daughter of Hiram and Bridget Manderville and wife to Alvin George Bryenton, who preceded her in death in 1990. A devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, teacher and volunteer, we honor the life of a remarkable woman who touched the lives of many.

Pearl is survived by her daughter, Frances Ashfield (Ron) and her son David Bryenton (Judy). She is also survived by her six grandchildren: Debbie, Michelle, Kevin (Shelley), Matthew (Natasha), Peter (Sonya), and Laurie (Steve), as well as 13 great- grandchildren: Evan, Erin, Matthew, Emma, Katherine, Danielle, Lucy, Malcolm, Abby, Ella, Gwen, Charlotte, and Emily Pearl. At 100 years of age, she was predeceased by all eight of her siblings: Brycie, Barbara, Bertha, Warren, Currie, Frank, Eldon, and Betty. Pearl is survived by many nieces and nephews who were near and dear to her heart.

Pearl's commitment to education was unwavering. She graduated from Derby Superior School and obtained her teaching license from the Fredericton Normal School. In the 1960s, she attended summer school and night classes to earn her education degree. Pearl dedicated over 40 years of her life to teaching. She was a respected teacher in the Miramichi, caring for and shaping the lives of countless students. She taught in various rural schools, including Harkins High School, and eventually retired from Lower Derby Elementary School.

In addition to her teaching career, Pearl was actively involved in her community and was a steadfast advocate for all children. She served as the chairperson of the board of the Miramichi Hospital and continued her involvement when the Miramichi Regional Hospital was established. Pearl volunteered her time and energy to organizations such as the Kidney Foundation, the Red Cross, the Miramichi Hospital Foundation, the Dr.Everett Chalmer’s Hospital Auxiliary and the Terry Fox Run. She was a cherished member of Eastern Star and an active participant in St. Peter's Church, both in Millerton and Fredericton. In 1997, Pearl relocated to Fredericton, where she embraced a vibrant and fulfilling life. She enjoyed activities such as lawn bowling and participating in the local senior’s club. Although her formal involvement and memberships were numerous, it was her empathy and undying support of others that made her a remarkable and selfless community member.

Above all else, Pearl's greatest love was her family. Her grandchildren have fond memories of summers spent in the Miramichi, swimming in the river, fishing in the brook, and embarking on exciting adventures. Pearl had a creative spirit and would often invent skits and songs for the children, requesting shows for any occasion. She travelled across the country to visit family and friends ensuring close ties despite the distance. Her travels created lasting memories of love and laughter.

To her great-grandchildren, Pearl became affectionately known as "B". She lovingly cared for them, hosted tea parties, baked delicious cinnamon rolls, cheered for the Blue Jays and found great enjoyment in togetherness.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Wendy Boulter for her loving care and friendship. They also express their thanks to the staff of Thomas Hall for their service and compassion.

A visitation and reception will be held from 12pm-2pm on May 31st , 2023, followed by a funeral service at 2pm. These will be held at the Northumberland Funeral Home & Crematorium, 102 Pleasant Street, Miramichi. Internment will follow at St. Peter’s Anglican Church Cemetery in Millerton, NB. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to The Terry Fox Foundation  Tribute Donations (terryfox.ca) or a charity of choice.

For those unable to attend, the funeral service will be recorded and uploaded afterwards.

Pearl was a caring and committed woman who lived a life that mattered. Her kindness, love, and dedication to her family and community have left an indelible mark on all who knew her. As we bid her farewell, let us remember the lessons she taught us and strive to live our lives with the same love, integrity, and compassion that she exemplified. May her soul rest in eternal peace.