Ernestine Mathews

Ernestine Champion Mathews was born on December 11, 1954, in Tampa, Florida to the proud parents, Ernest Champion and Eva Mae Bowers Champion. A woman of unwavering faith, Ernestine found solace in her relationship with the Lord and was an active member of Shekinah Glory Ministries, where she worshipped under the guidance of Pastor Pamela Calhoun. Her faithfulness and dedication to her spiritual community were truly admirable. Ernestine's passion for beauty led her to excel in the field of cosmetology, where she thrived as a talented beautician. Her keen eye for style and her ability to transform and empower others through her craft made her a cherished professional in the industry. She never failed to bring out the beauty that lied within every person she worked with. Outside of her professional life, Ernestine enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. Often found relaxing on her porch, she would wave and greet passing cars with a warm smile. She had a talent for baking and frequently delighted her loved ones with delicious delicacies. She also had a flair for fashion and took great pride in her impeccable sense of style. Ernestine's unwavering love and devotion to her family defined who she was as a person. Her daughters, Eva Jones and Emiko Jean, held a special place in her heart, and their bond was unbreakable. On Sunday, January 14, 2024, Ernestine Champion Mathews, a beloved daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, gracefully embraced her final journey as she peacefully transitioned from this earthly life while in the care of Brookwood Citizen's Baptist Medical Center in Talladega, Alabama, surrounded by her cherished family. While her presence will be dearly missed, her legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering faith will forever guide and inspire those who were fortunate to have known her. Ernestine leaves behind a legacy of love to be forever cherished by her devoted daughters, Eva (Kelvin Williams) Jones and Emiko (Jeanice) Jean; her sisters Elizabeth Key and Trudie Hillery; bonus sister, Kayle Border; her loyal and lifelong confidante, Timothy Hunley, who brought joy and companionship into her life. Ernestine's memory will be lovingly kept alive by her grandchildren, Xavier Johnson, Robbie Bedford, and Yanique Jean; along with her four great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends who will forever hold her in their hearts. Ernestine Champion Mathews will forever be remembered as a woman of faith, a beacon of beauty, and a source of unconditional love. May she find eternal peace in the loving embrace of our Heavenly Father.

Tributes

Ernestine Mathews

December 11, 1954 - January 14, 2024