Ernestine was born May 6, 1926 in Hilton Head SC. She was the daughter of the late Chamberlain Robinson and Della Drayton.

Her education was attained by attending Matha, Boarding school in Beaufort SC. The boarding school gave its young black girls an amazing education in the deep Jim Crow South. Taught by white northern teachers that were brought in, she was given sustainable skills steeped in culture and history that lasted a life time in work, play and motherhood. Matha taught them etiquette, poise and how to carry themselves with a God-like humbleness.

Ernestine began her walk with Jesus early in her life, when she accepted Christ as her savior. She attended Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Hilton Head Island SC.
In 1954 she was joined in Holy Matrimony to the late Melvin Johnson Sr. They raised their three children Della, Leslie and Melvin Jr along with their extended children Renee, Dana and Krasia (deceased). In the early 60’s they became faithful members of Allen AME Church where she served and volunteered in many capacities.

Ernestine was the consummate wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, great great grandmother, sister, auntie, confidante, advisor and friend who loved people and all that entered her world was embraced by her. She loved music, any kind of seafood, Broadway shows and most of all traveling. If you said let’s go she was ready. Her get up and go buddy was her Aunt Adrena (Thelma and Louise), her Sister Dorothy and Granddaughter Dana.

Ernestine made sure her children lived well rounded lives. She taught her daughters to sew, knit, crochet and embroidery-in which today they are great seamstresses. All Of her children played musical instruments, they all went to dancing school (Bernice Johnson) as well as attending Sunday School, singing in the choir, usher, YPD and so much more. Ernestine made sure every day was accounted for definitely no time for cartoons.

Ernestine Johnson transitioned from labor to reward on Sunday October 8th@ 6:48am.

Ernestine leaves behind to cherish memory, love and legacy her children Della Royster of Atlanta, GA; Leslie Johnson of Queens, NY and Melvin Johnson Jr (Joyce) of Fredericksburg,VA. 8 Grandchildren, 19 Great- grandchildren, 9 Great-great grandchildren: 2 Godchildren, One sister Dorothy Taylor (Hardeeville SC). One Aunt Andrena Upson, Laurelton, NY and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended children, church family, neighbors and friends.

While Ernestine will be deeply missed, she will forever live on in our hearts, words, actions and memories.

Lovingly submitted by the family. 

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