The Life, Love and Legacy of Mearlean

Mearlean Risper was born on December 18, 1966, in Fort Worth, Texas, at John Peter Smith Hospital to Georgia Risper Driver and Calvin Hodge. As her mother's only child, Mearlean shared a uniquely close bond with Georgia. Their relationship was one of deep love, friendship, and devotion, and they remained inseparable throughout their lives.

Mearlean received her education in the Fort Worth Independent School District and graduated from Trimble Technical High School in the Class of 1985. While attending Trimble Tech, she pursued studies in cosmetology, laying the foundation for a career that reflected both her talent and passion for serving others. Determined to further her education, she attended Dudley Cosmetology University in Kernersville, North Carolina, where she earned her bachelor's degree in cosmetology.

Raised in the beauty industry, Mearlean spent much of her life at Georgia's Beauty Salon, a beloved Fort Worth establishment that served the community for 45 years. Working alongside her mother for nearly two decades, she became a skilled stylist and helped manage the family business with dedication and pride. The salon was more than a workplace. It was a second home where she developed lifelong friendships and touched countless lives through her warm spirit and caring heart. Eventually, the salon closed as her mother's health declined, bringing a close to a cherished chapter in their family's legacy.

In 2003, Mearlean began her career with Walmart, where she faithfully served for more than 23 years. Throughout her tenure, she held various positions, advancing from Customer Service Representative to management roles. Her strong work ethic, reliability, and commitment to excellence earned the respect of both coworkers and customers alike. She remained a dedicated employee until her health no longer allowed her to continue working.

A woman of faith, Mearlean was a devoted member of New Fellowship Church in Fort Worth. She loved her church family and was deeply committed to serving others. Pastor Diggs remembers Mearlean for her generous spirit, unwavering support of her church, and genuine love for people. Her welcoming nature made everyone feel valued and appreciated and faithfully served on the church's welcoming committee.

Mearlean was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Georgia Risper Driver; her father, Calvin Hodge; her brothers, James Williams and Calvin "Roderick" Hodge; her godbrother, Andrew Wilburn; and her godmothers, Janice Hatchett and Pearlie Morgan.

Though her earthly journey has ended, her legacy of love, kindness, faith, and service will continue to live in the hearts of those who knew her. She leaves to cherish her memory a host of loving aunts, uncles, a niece, and a nephew; her beloved goddaughters, Miesha Rodgers and Angel Wilburn; her honorary sisters, Rita Hatchett, Sharon Kimble (Larry), and Machelle Epps (Kelvin); along with many dear friends who became family.