Mrs. Earnestine Yearby was born to the late Aggie Samuel and Lacey Mitchell on May 11, 1928, in Brooks County, Georgia. A virtuous woman and cherished matriarch, she passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by family on February 16, 2025, at the age of 96. Earnestine lived a life that truly embodied the spirit of Proverbs 31, exemplifying strength, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to her family and community.
As the last living relative of her generation, Earnestine embodied the strength and resilience of a bygone era. Her family was her pride and joy, and she leaves behind seven devoted children, numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren who carry forward her legacy of love and compassion. Earnestine was not only a mother but a guiding light, nurturing her family with unwavering support and wisdom.
Throughout her life, Earnestine was a dedicated mother to seven children, nurturing them with love and instilling in them the values of faith, integrity, and compassion. Her children-Patricia, Larry, Diane, Denise Joe Nathan, Derrick and Darren-were the crown of her life, and she took great pride in their achievements, always encouraging them to pursue their dreams.
Barnestine was not only a mother but also a beloved grandmother and great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother whose warmth and wisdom touched the hearts of her 14 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great-grandchildren. She was known for her comforting presence, her delicious home-cooked meals, and her ability to create a loving environment where everyone felt welcome.
As a devoted Christian, Earnestine's faith was the foundation of her life. She was a member of Pelham Deliverance Tabernacle. She served her church with dedication and grace, embodying the principles of Proverbs 31: "She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue." Her life was a testament to her belief in God's goodness, and she spent countless hours in service to others, reaching out to those in need within her community.
Earnestine was highly respected by all who knew her. Her strength in adversity, her ability to uplift others, and her unwavering faith left an indelible mark on her family and friends. She approached each day with grace, dignity, and a heart full of love, reminding everyone around her of the beauty of a life well-lived.
She is survived by her seven children, Patricia Bryant, Larry Bryant, Diane Humphrey (Dudley), Denise Yearby, Joe Nathan Yearby, Jr., Derrick Yearby, Sr. (Sandra) and Darren Yearby (Phyllis); grandchildren, Eric Bryant (Traci), Marquis Yearby, Shannon Yearby, Jamoa Wooten (Felicia), Quincy Brown (Jamie), Delicia Yearby, Ashley Yearby, David Humphrey, Jaleeza Henderson, Jotiana Harper (Aaron), Davanti Yearby, Derrick Yearby, Jr., Joe Nathan Yearby, III, and Tijon Yearby; 30 great-grandchildren; 8 great-great-grandchildren; and a host of friends and loved ones who will forever treasure her memory. Earnestine's legacy of love, wisdom, and faith will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.
Visitation will be Saturday, February 22, 2025 at the Stevens-McGhee Chapel from 10AM-6PM.
A celebration of life will be Sunday, February 23, 2025 at the Morven City Auditorium at 1PM. Burial will follow in Mt. Zion Church Cemetery. Visit this website or our Stevens-McGhee Funeral Home Facebook page to view a livestream of the celebration.
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