Former Chronicle of the Horse writer Penelope Daniels Pearson died peacefully in her home in Bellville, Texas. She was 69.
Ms. Pearson’s lifelong love for horses began while growing up in Houston, Texas, where she rode hunters at Edgepark Stables. She continued riding and competing throughout her academic career at Miss Porter’s School (Conn.), Wellesley College (Conn.) and the University of Texas. Her many competitive successes included winning the 1965 Texas Hunter & Jumper Association green conformation hunter championship aboard Cobra C.
Outside the show ring, Ms. Pearson was an avid foxhunter, first earning her colors with the Old Chatham Hunt (N.Y.). She shared her zest for horse sports with her daughters, introducing them to the thrill of foxhunting and assisting in their Pony Club activities.
Ms. Pearson moved to Middleburg, Va., in 1974 to join the editorial staff at The Chronicle of the Horse. She reported on horse shows and equestrian events across the country for nearly a decade, and to this day Chronicle staff members fondly recall Ms. Pearson’s good cheer and positive energy.
ADVERTISEMENT
Ms. Pearson returned to Houston to care for her elderly parents and to earn her master’s degree in social work from the University of Texas. Despite moving to the city and taking on a new career as a social worker, she continued to ride at Memorial Park Hunters and at the Houston Polo Club.
Her enthusiasm for animals wasn’t limited to horses. After her retirement she found a new passion in raising Mediterranean Miniature donkeys. She also made her mark in the dog show world, raising champion Norwich terriers. She was most proud of partnering with Leslie Becker to co-own CH Skyscot’s Summer Shower, who qualified for the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in 2004.
Ms. Pearson is survived by two daughters, Elizabeth “Wendy” Trachte-Huber, of Bellville, Texas, and Rebecca Pearson, of Denver, Colo.; a brother, Daniel Daniels, of Bellville, Texas; and four grandchildren.
Memorial contributions may be sent to St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 24 North Masonic St., Bellville, TX 77418 or your local animal rescue organization.
