Editorial: Fond memories of a real Pearl

Pearl Sanger's story touched many people.

Pearl Sanger's story touched our community in a way rarely seen.

In 2013, aged 92, Pearl's home was burgled and set alight while she was in hospital.

Seven weeks later she was in a renovated home after the public came to her rescue.

Insurance covered the damage, community goodwill saw her home renovated and repaired in record time. The Northern Advocate co-ordinated an appeal for Pearl, and passed on food, household items, books and cash.

She loved crime novels and, through a Whangarei contact, received a personal message from one of her favourite authors - Lee Child (of the Jack Reacher series).

Radius Rimu Park took Pearl in while the repairs took place. And it was at Radius Rimu Park that Pearl passed away this week after moving back into the home, no longer able to care for herself.

Pearl spent many happy hours in her new home before she passed away, thanks to the generosity of Northlanders.

Back in 2013, I wrote that many families had their own Pearl, and empathised with her.

She not only became a star in Northland, she featured on Seven Sharp and shone brightly in the national spotlight.

Our condolences to Pearl's family - many people have fond memories of Pearl and will be thinking of her this week.