04/08/2026
"Even though it’s odd… it’s just something I enjoy doing." - Pearl Fryar
Back in 2017 we had the honor to meet, photograph and dine with the great Pearl Fryar. Dining of course at his favorite eating establishment, the Waffle House.
When we went to his home, we were greeted with the most impressive yard we had ever seen. Topiary trees abounded, thoughtfully curated landscapes, carved bushes, towering arboreal sculptures, and much more decorated the property.
We spotted Pearl riding up to us in a John Deer Gator, that we later learned was gifted to him by Oprah Winfrey. He hopped out and extended his right hand for a firm hand shake, calloused from many years of gardening and sculpting. In his left hand he held a very well-seasoned coffee mug from Waffle House. A much deserved souvenir from maintaining their landscaping for several years.
He showed us around the property, noting his favorite pieces and a few he wasn't quite happy with yet. I made a joke, "How does it feel to know for certain, that you have the best lawn in the neighborhood?" He paused for a moment and told us that when he originally was trying to buy the property, that it caused quite a stir in the neighborhood. They were concerned that he wouldn't maintain his lawn...
Fast forward to today, and now he's an icon of Bishopville. Sharing legendary status with the mythical "Lizard Man". However, instead of myth, you see the impact of his work as soon as you enter town. Ornately cut shrubbery decorate the major signs and posts, causing Bishopville to feel truly distinct. Setting it apart from other small towns in the South.
As our visit continued, we headed to lunch (Waffle House of course.) Pearl told us stories and we talked about the photo project: a calendar. We picked out some compositions for the issue and he talked about his personal philosophy. He had a local scholarship program for student's with C & D grade point averages. Pearl struggled in school, and saw how the A & B kids were treated differently, and were given many more opportunities and financial aid. The way that he saw it, those students were going to succeed anyways, and that we should be more equitable and help the students who were struggling.
At the end of the meal, after many interruptions from different friends and fans alike, we learned that the bill for lunch was completely covered. In fact, Pearl always eats for free at the Waffle House, a lifetime sponsorship to thank him for how much he and his garden has done for the town of Bishopville.
When we talked to him about what he does and why he does it, there wasn't any over the top, pretentious-artistic answer about purpose or sacrifice. He just loved to do it. He enjoyed the process and appreciated nature. He enjoyed showing people that you can make the mundane magical and wonderous.
There are many lessons that you can learn from Pearl Fryar. For us we were inspired, to do the things that we enjoy. It doesn't matter if they're "odd" or not, it matters if you care.
Thank you Pearl. God bless you friend and rest well.
Pearl Fryar
