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By Ron Calhoun
Imagine living a life so full of purpose, service, and love that it inspires generations to follow in your footsteps. On January 8, Cleveland’s very own Lady Pearl Shields celebrated her 100th birthday, and her story is one for the ages—a blueprint for resilience, leadership, and making a difference.
From shaping young minds as a groundbreaking educator to spreading hope through her ministry, Shields is a living legend. Her story is so powerful because of its relatability. It showcases the power of perseverance, the value of community, and the importance of giving back.
From the Classroom to the Community
Born in 1925 to Luther and Pearl Thomas, Shields grew up in Cleveland’s Miles Heights neighborhood and attended John Adams High School. She knew early on that education was her calling. After earning her bachelor’s degree from Cleveland State University and a master’s degree in education from Kent State University, she continued to study at other universities like Bowling Green and John Carroll.
But she didn’t just stop at earning degrees, she changed lives. For 27 years, Shields was the principal at Iowa Maple Elementary School, turning it into a hub of creativity, learning, and innovation.
“She believed in every single student and made you feel like you mattered, asking the children and everyone around her for excellence,” said Rachel Oden, a friend of Shields for 60 years.
After retiring from Cleveland public schools, most people might have kicked back and relaxed. Not Shields. She became the principal at Mount Pleasant Christian School and kept inspiring young minds until her second retirement.
Faith Meets Action
For Shields, education and faith went hand in hand. As an ordained minister, she served as an Associate Pastor at Euclid Avenue Church of God. She didn’t just preach—she led by example, mentoring others and taking on leadership roles in organizations like the National Association of Women of the Church of God.
Rev. Lee Goode, pastor of Church of the Harvest Church of God in Cleveland said, “She can pray without ceasing and get results. People are really impressed with that and respect her ability to speak the truth.”
Pearl’s faith fueled her activism and mentorship, ensuring her impact reached beyond the walls of the church.
A Legacy of Black Excellence
If Shields’ life had a theme, it would be Black excellence. She’s a founding member of the Lambda Phi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, a sisterhood dedicated to service and empowerment. Her book, “Feeling, Thinking, and Growing on Hough Avenue,” captures the essence of her Cleveland upbringing and the strength of a community.
Shield’s nephew Ray Cameron said he lives by what she said, “You’re not better than anyone else, but anyone else is not better than you!”
Her connection to the community is unshakable. As a 60-year resident of the Lee-Harvard area, she’s not just a neighbor—she’s an icon. Whether she’s gardening, reading, or attending programs at Fatima Family Center, Shields shows us that age is just a number when it comes to staying connected.
A Message for the Next Generation
So, what can Gen Z and millennials learn from Pearl Shields? Everything. Her life is proof that education, faith, and community are the cornerstones of a meaningful life. Whether you’re starting your first job, launching a side hustle, or figuring out your purpose, Shields’ story reminds us to stay grounded, give back, and chase our dreams with passion.
“I’ve always believed in planting seeds of hope and love, even when the world felt heavy,” Shields once said.
Celebrating a Century of Greatness
As she celebrates 100 years, Pearl’s life serves as a reminder: Your actions today shape the legacy you leave tomorrow.
For this milestone birthday, Cuyahoga County Council members honored Shields for her lifetime of service, leadership, and her unwavering commitment to the community.
