Pearlena Burt

Pearl Burt
Pearlena Lucille (Broyles) Burt was born September 4,1941 and passed away May 16, 2021 in her home surrounded by her family.
She was born in St. James Missouri to Ed and Louise Broyles and came to Watsonville with her mother and siblings, where she was then raised by parents Wally and Louise Jessup. Pearl continued to live out her life in Watsonville, Ca.
Pearl graduated from Watsonville High School in 1960. Soon after graduation, she found her passion for serving others (especially in the kitchen). Pearl has shared many fond memories of her waitressing days and the precious friendships made over the years through hospitality. Pearl’s love and expertise for cooking lead her to a career as the head cook for the well known Ford’s Department store in Watsonville.
Pearl was a hard working, single Mom for many years doing what she loved until the day she found out she would become a grandma to her first born grand baby Drew! It was then that she would retire from Ford’s and became “Nana Pearl” full time and be hugely instrumental in her grandchildren’s upbringing.
Being a Nana was Pearl’s biggest pride and joy and according to her family, she was the “best Nana ever” Pearl continued her passion for cooking in her own kitchen whipping up meals for her family and friends. She even held blue ribbon and first place awards around Santa Cruz County for her art of cooking/baking. As her grandchildren became adults, Pearl led the way as they embraced her culinary secrets and each holiday she gave a lesson at the stove on her country gravy as each one took turns meticulously whisking away in hopes to master her skills. A good ‘ol southern meal was Pearl’s specialty, her fried chicken was out of this world!
Pearl also enjoyed, annual traditions with her son Kirt and his family, to Disneyland, San Francisco, Raider games and most recently to Las Vegas. Pearl’s best buddy was her brother Harold “Sunny”, they loved being next-door neighbors, found enjoyment walking together and meeting up for the Friday paper with coffee and doughnuts, and looked forward to Sunday dinners out at Kirt’s place. Pearl loved to relax with a good book and a nice cup of black coffee. She appreciated all music and loved to dance, she especially loved listening to Tom Jones and Anne Murray right up to the very day she passed away.
Pearl will be deeply missed. She leaves behind her son and daughter In-law Kirt and Natalie Vojvoda, grandsons Drew Vojvoda (Gilian), and Austin Vojvoda, (who was her primary care giver at home during her battle with cancer) and granddaughter Mackenzie Vojvoda. Her brothers Chester and Harold Broyles, step daughters Julie and Shelly Burt and their children and many nieces and nephews. Pearl was predeceased by her parents Wally and Louise Jessup, father Ed Broyles, husband Mike Burt, brother Jerry Broyles, sister Linda Broyles, and most recently her beloved son Kevin Webb.
Pearl will be remembered as a giver, and has taught her family that giving and serving others is the best kind of happiness you will find. Her legacy lives on through her family who shares her love of cooking and enjoying a beautiful home cooked meal listening to as Pearl would say, “Tommy Baby”.
At Pearl’s request, there will be no public services. A private celebration of life for family will be held at a later date. Ave Maria Memorial Chapel has been entrusted with arrangements.