Ernestine Elinore White

Ernestine White was born on April 21, 1944, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to the union of York “Buddy Lee” Hazley and Beulah (Taylor) Hazley. From an early age, Ernestine was known for her warm spirit, kind heart, and ability to make everyone she met feel welcome. It was often said that Ernestine never met a stranger.

She attended Sands Elementary School, Bloom Middle School, and Taft High School before obtaining her GED. Ernestine entered the workforce at The Keebler Company in 1973, where she faithfully worked until her retirement in 2009.

At a young age, Ernestine accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior under the leadership of Bishop McDaniels at St. James Church of God in Christ. Throughout her life, her faith remained the foundation of her journey. She was a devoted member of St. James Church of God in Christ, New Birth Christian Center, and DAP Ministries, and she frequently attended services at Rocklife Church. Even in her final days, Ernestine continued to trust in the Lord, finding strength, peace, and comfort through prayer and her unwavering faith.

As the second oldest of nine children, Ernestine spent much of her life caring for others. She possessed a nurturing spirit and was often the person family and friends turned to for guidance, support, and encouragement. Her love for family was evident in all that she did.

Ernestine had a deep passion for music and enjoyed playing the piano and singing alongside her sisters. She also loved shopping, barbequing, and baking for family and friends. She became well known for her delicious BBQ ribs and homemade sauce, as well as her famous red velvet cake and pound cake, which brought joy to countless gatherings and celebrations.

Family was the center of Ernestine’s life. Above all, Ernestine cherished her role as a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend.  She was the loving mother of three children. She is survived by her devoted daughter, Stephanie Reynolds, and was preceded in death by her beloved sons, Shawn and Steven.

On May 31, 2026, Ernestine gained her wings and departed this earthly life to be with her Lord and Savior. She was welcomed into eternal rest by her sons, Shawn and Steven; her parents, York and Beulah Hazley; and her sisters, Naomi, Janice, and Pauline.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory her daughter, Stephanie; her grandchildren, Dean, Dante, Karrington (Anthony), Amber, London, Canada, and Alexis; 18 great-grandchildren; her siblings, Rev. York (Bobbie) Hayes, Thelma Garner, Dr. Andrew (Alicia) Hazley, Lawrence (Donna) Hazley, and Mark Hazley; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, church family, and dear friends.

Ernestine’s legacy of faith, love, service, and kindness will continue to live on through all who were blessed to know her. Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will remain forever in the hearts of those she loved and who loved her.

To send flowers to the family or place a tree in memory of Ernestine Elinore White, please visit our Tribute Store.