Earnestine Summerlin

Earnestine Summerlin, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on December 9, 2025, in her hometown of Marianna, Florida. Born on August 20, 1941, she spent her life in the community she cherished, where she touched the lives of many with her kindness and unwavering spirit.

Earnestine was known for her nurturing nature and her role as a devoted mother to her sons, Travis Summerlin and his wife Olida, Alfred Summerlin and his wife Teresa and Russell Summerlin and his wife Amy; her daughter, Geraldine Messer and husband Dale. She also found great joy in her eleven grandchildren and eighteen great grandchildren. She passed just days before celebrating her first great great grandchild. Her family was the heart of her existence, and she cherished every moment spent with them, fostering relationships that will resonate for generations to come.

She is also survived by her dear sister, Barbara Chason, who shared countless memories and experiences with her throughout their lives.

Earnestine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jim Summerlin, with whom she shared many treasured moments and a deep companionship throughout their life together as well as her brother Gene Freeman and her sisters Erlene Griffin and Christine Freeman.

The community will come together to honor Earnestine’s life during a funeral service that will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Hasty Pond Church near Marianna, Florida with a time of visitation beginning at 9 A.M. Interment will follow in Hasty Pond Cemetery. Earnestine's legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering support will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed but will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends.