Ernestine “Ellison” Barnett was born September 13, 1937, in Columbus, Ohio to Ernest Thurron Ellison (Father) and Nancy Ellison (mother). Ernestine was one of 2 children. Her sister, Betty Jean Hairston (deceased), were thick as thieves. They were very close and always had each other’s back. Their father taught them to be strong, confident, and independent women.
She accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Savior as a young lady. She joined Triedstone Missionary Baptist Church and remained a faithful member for decades, where she sang and was a member of The Voices of Triedstone and the YWCC (Young Women Christian Council). Ernestine raised her children in Triedstone MBC, where they were active. Also, her father helped build the foundation of Triedstone in the 1970s.
In the 50’s, Ernestine Ellison met John Barnett. They got married on June 14, 1958. This union brought 3 children: Dwayne S. Barnett, Johnna “Boo” R. Barnett, and Thurron E. Barnett. Ernestine, has also raised several other family members as her own.
In her 86 years of life, Ernestine graduated from Central High School in Columbus, Ohio. She worked several jobs, but spent over 35 years at C.M.A.CA.O. Head Start. She worked at four different locations. Her favorite was Milo Grogan Head Start, her first location. About a year after her last son was born, she was hired as a temporary Teacher Assistant. But it didn’t take her long to get a promotion; within a few years, she moved to a full-time position as the Head Teacher. When her son turned 3, she enrolled into the program.
She loved working with the staff as well as with the children. Many friendships were formed during this time. They became a family to her. They were at her house and she was at theirs. Cooking, playing games, and enjoying each other’s company. This included several staff member’s families bonding together as one big family. She absolutely loved working for C.M.A.C.A.O. Head Start.
Family meant everything to Ernestine! Spending time with family gave her life. This always included food, cookouts, playing games such as Bid-Whiz, Po-Ke-No, Spades, Spoons, Uno, as well as other card and board games. Constantly traveling with her kids, from one relative’s house to another’s at least 2 to 3 times a month, enjoying good fellowship, food and laughter. Ernestine often reminisced about these good times, which usually put a smile on her face.
Ernestine is preceded in death by her father, Ernest Thurron Ellison; her mother, Nancy Ellison; sister, Betty Jean (Jessie) Hairston; brother-in-law, Ray James Thornwell; nieces, Jenifer and Jessica Hairston; cousins, Ulysses and Peggy Austin, and special son, Shawn Williams.
Ernestine leaves to cherish her memory, her children, Dwayne (Mary Garth) S. Barnett, Johnna R. Barnett, Thurron E. Barnett, and LaVonda McLean, and many, many others, grandchildren, Natasha (Brandon Scott) R. Stith and Brandon Young; great grandchildren, Bre’Onna Scott, Layana Hammonds, Ladarius Edwards, Elijah Kelly, Braydyn Young, Kristian Young, and Riley Young; sisters, Joyce M. Crockett, Susie M. Ford; loved ones, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Visitation 9:00 AM and Funeral Service 10:00 AM Saturday, April 27, 2024 at Triedstone Missionary Baptist Church, 858 E. 3rd Ave. Interment at Eastlawn Cemetery. Ministry of Comfort entrusted to MARLAN J. GARY FUNERAL HOME, THE CHAPEL OF PEACE EAST, 5456 E. Livingston Ave. To read the complete obituary, order flowers, view video tribute and offer condolences to the Barnett Family, visit www.TheChapelofPeace.com
Mrs. Barnett, will definitely be missed !! You always lightened up a room and I loved ❤️ you like my mother!! Rest until we meet again!!
Renee.
God has called another one of his angels home as her time here on earth has ended. I am truly sorry to hear of the passing of Mrs. Barnett a beautiful soul my love and prayers are the family during this time and going forward. It is a blessing to say that my daughter was a student of Mrs. Barnett and when I found out later, she was the mother of Thurran it touched my heart because she was truly an amazing teacher.
Mrs. Barnett where has the time gone. You watched my siblings grow from teenagers to adults. I appreciate the light you brought into our lives. You will be dearly missed. You and Mr. Barnett souls have reconnected and that is sure to be a delight for you both. Much Love Mrs. Barnett…much Love!
Lisa
My Condolences to Thurron and the Barnett family Yes she was beautiful inside and out I loved her spirit She was a awesome teacher Praying for the family today and the days to come
My heartfelt and deepest condolences to you and your family for losing the most beautiful person kind loving and compassionate.
Mrs. Barnett, we are glad to have met you and for being our family. Rest in peace, Mom we love you.
we don’t know anything to say except to offer our condolences to the family. Please try to be strong to overcome this loss. We are always here for you and your family in this difficult time. Love always.
Mano Family