In Canoga Park they owned and operated a Montgomery Ward's Car Rental Company for two years. In 1978, they moved to Anaheim, where they reestablished Chinchilla Standard Select. In 1982, the Pearsons moved to Wildomar, where Mary became the Lake Elsinore Recreation Park District Executive Secretary at the age of 62. Nilis was the President and Director of the Mutual Water Company before passing on May 11, 1995.

In April 1999, Mary moved to Somerset Glen Senior Apartments in La Mirada. In November of 2000, Mary joined the La Mirada Senior Council. She served as a member from November 2000 to August 2005.

Mary is very proud of her four daughters Karen, Shari, Jamie, and Sharece and son Bryan. They have blessed her with many grandchildren and several great grandchildren. Mary enjoys living in La Mirada and spending time with her family.