Pearl Esther Steen, 87, passed away on May 9, 2026. She was born on January 17, 1939, to Elmo Jackson and Molinda Hilliard Jackson in Yoakum, TX. She attended Huston-Tillotson College, graduating in 1961, obtaining her bachelor’s degree with a double major in English and History and a minor in Sociology. She married Sterling Gene Steen on November 18, 1961, in Cuero, TX.
As a devoted member of Mt. Nebo Baptist Church, she served as leader in several ministries over the years: Sr. Choir President, Church Secretary, Church Clerk, Mission II President, and the Culinary Committee.
With her love for education, she became a substitute teacher for over 30 years at VISD from 1/5/88 to 10/14/18. She was extremely knowledgeable and proficient regarding several subject matters and was able to utilize her skills in English, Math, History and Home Economics, etc. She became well-respected and could be relied upon to fill in wherever needed.
Another one of her loves was singing, which led her to join the Civic Chorus where she was a member from 2004 to 2020. She served as President from 2010 to 2020.
Preceding her in death are her parents, Elmo Jackson and Molinda Hilliard Jackson; husband, Sterling Gene Steen; brothers, Tom Jackson, Elmo Jackson, Jr., and stillborn baby brother; sisters, Edna Walker and Clara Grant. She leaves behind son, Gregory Steen; daughter, Diane Steen (Robert Williams); grandson, Xavier Steen (Deleynie Garza); great-granddaughter, Malaysia Steen; several nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Monday, May 18, 2026, from 5-8 p.m. at Rosewood Funeral Chapel in the Regency Chapel. The funeral service will take place on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Mount Nebo Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.
Pallbearers: James Grant, Breck Ross, Darryl Thomas, Damond Hilliard, Roy Hill, James Reyes.
Honorary Pallbearers: Carlton Bowden, Deacon James Tippins, Deacon Sam Sumpter, Deacon Willie Garley, Deacon James Mike, Deacon Willie Simmons, Deacon Charles Davis, Deacon Reginald Perry, Deacon Bess Williams, Jr.
The family would like to thank Dr. Frank Parma, Dr. Kurtis Krueger, Dr. Scott Stein, and Dr. Haresh Kumar for your many decades of outstanding care; the doctors, medical attendants and staff at Citizens Medical Center who provided wonderful care as well; Dr. Dan Dugi, medical attendants and staff at Twin Pines North for your care, kindness and support; and Remarkable Hospice for your diligence, extreme kindness, care and support.
A special thank you as well to the family and friends who reached out in support with phone calls, letters, cards or visits!
