Pearl DeLima, the mother of comedian Frank DeLima, died early today at Alexander Manor, where she had been residing. She was 88.

"Mom was my biggest fan," said DeLima early today. He learned from the care home officials that she had died in her sleep.

DeLima's audiences knew her as well as his comedy routines. At his club appearances she attended, she often took a bow like a celebrity but she also monitored his act with pride.

"I'll miss the smiles she brought to everybody," said DeLima. "She sang for everyone; a lot of people tell me how wonderful I was, because of her."

Pearl DeLima worked at the Punahou School cafeteria, then at Timberline Camp, involved in food service. She retired many years ago.

"She loved baking; she made the best cream puff, pies and cakes," said DeLima. "She made many wedding cakes for our church and circle of friends."

Pearl DeLima was born on March 9, 1920. "She was an orphan and had a tough childhood," said DeLima. "She lived at St. Anthony's home in Kalihi and the Sacred Hearts nun brought her up. Consequently, she was a devout Catholic — all of the family was. She prayed for us every night."

The comedian said his mom and her circle of Portuguese lady friends influenced his humor and style the past three decades.

"I'll miss the part where she throws the Portagee guilt to me; you know, the suffering; that's been part of my life and I've learned to deal with it," he said.

She was feisty two days ago, when DeLima last talked to her. "Everytime I call, she tells me 'I want baby powder, cream for my itchy toes, and saimin (Cup-a-Noodle),'" he said. "And prune juice, apple sauce ... but she always said, 'No buy too much; I don't know how long I'll live.'"

Besides son Frank, survivors include three daughters, Rochelle Ramirez of Oakland, Sandy Kittleson of Minnesota and Pi'ilani Wilcox of Las Vegas, and another son, Mark DeLima of Ohio.'

Services are pending.