Joan accepted Christ as a young adult and was a long-time member of Antioch Baptist Church of Long Beach, CA.
Joan was known as a fashionista and a compassionate soul. It was not uncommon to see Joan “strutting” around going in and out of Ross,Dillards or Macy’s. Joan LOVED fashion. She was the epitome of fashion from head to toe! Joan always believed, “You should look classy and act like a lady”.
Joan attended Compton High School in Compton, CA. Joan worked various jobs to support the rearing of her children. She worked in administration at Compton City Hall, Exxon Chemical Plant (Baytown, TX) and a host of executive administration positions. While living in Texas for several years, Joan would meet the love of her life.
On January 9, 1988, Joan united in holy matrimony to James Pierson in Long Beach, CA. The pair would come to establish themselves within the community. It was during that time, Joan found her calling to foster youth. In true fashion, Joan was driven and was propelled for greatness. She would later further her education in California where she earned the title of a Licensed Real Estate Agent. Joan and James would later start their own real estate company Diamond Realty in Lancaster, CA.
Joan leaves to cherish her memory her husband of 35 years, James of Palmdale, CA; siblings: Charles, Larry Sr. (preceded in death), Vincent (Donna), Juanita (Charles), Debra (Henry) and Wilbert (Laura); children Regina (Abraham), LaTynia (Jonte), Yolanda, Shalanda (Nate), Aireana and Raylene; grandchildren: Abraham II, Emanuel (Gabriella), Regina (Mark) and Jermaine (Maricela); great grandchildren: Eliza, Grayson, Sarai, Ayla, Aiden, Lovie and Ava; a host of nieces and nephews and lifelong friends: Shirley Valenzuela, Ora Quaynor and Barbara Fletcher.
