Ernestine DuBose, 94, of Devers, Texas, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Nov. 3, 2024, in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her loving family. Born on April 17, 1930, in Hull, Texas, Ernestine was the beloved daughter of the late Burton Holly and Hattie Ethel Howell Massingill.
In her early years, Ernestine’s life was one of hard work and determination. She began as a telephone operator and later became a restaurant owner, where her café was renowned for serving the best hamburgers—a testament to her culinary skill. Ernestine’s passion for cooking extended far beyond her family; she was also known as the ranch cook, preparing hearty meals for workers over many years. Alongside these roles, she worked as a rice, hay, and cattle hand on the family farm, embodying a tireless work ethic and commitment to her roots.
Ernestine’s love for the outdoors led her to enjoy hunting and fishing, while at home, she was delighted to play dominos and chicken foot with her friends. She actively participated in her church and community, contributing her cooking talents to church gatherings and community events, always with a heart full of devotion to the Lord. Ernestine’s faith was her guiding light as a member of the Apostolic Tabernacle in Liberty and a former member of The United Pentecostal Church in Daisetta and the First Baptist Church in Devers.
She loved gardening, especially tending to her cherished Christmas cactus, and enjoyed working on puzzles. Ernestine had a generous spirit; she often checked in on the elderly and extended her help to those in need. Known as a mother to the motherless, she welcomed many children into her home, sharing her warmth and care.
Ernestine was a strong-willed, hardworking woman, devoted to her faith and family. She was a perfectionist in her cooking, preparing enough to feed entire families. Her strength, opinionated nature, and dedication to her beliefs impacted everyone she met.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband of over 51 years, Marvin “Dick” Chester DuBose; her daughter Lacie DuBose Havens; and her siblings Hellen Watson, Joyce Taylor, Eugene “Bubby” Massingill, and Douglas Massingill,
Ernestine leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. She is survived by her children Marvin DuBose and wife Dianne of Devers, Texas and Wesley Burnett and wife Vada of Singer, Louisiana; her cherished grandchildren, Shawn Gray and wife Lori of Bryan, Texas, Denise Williams and husband Henry of Thackerville, Oklahoma, Shana DuBose of Daisetta, Texas, and Jonathan DuBose and wife Amy of Kountze, Texas. Her memory will be held dear by her great-grandchildren Peyton, Hannah, Haley Gray, Zackery, Carol Jo, Thomas Roberts, and Maggie DuBose.
Ernestine DuBose’s memory will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her strength, warmth, and devotion to her family, faith, and community will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.
Honoring the family by serving as pallbearers will be Jonathan DuBose, Shawn Gray, Zackery Roberts, Henry Williams, Joel Massingill, and Raul Sanchez, Jr. Serving as honorary pallbearers are Tommy Chesson, Bryon Watson, Gerald Glenn Stiles, Robert DuBose, and Carol Jo Roberts.
Friends are invited to visit with the family from 5 pm until 8 pm, on Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024, in the chapel of Allison Funeral Service, 1101 N. Travis Street, in Liberty. A funeral service will be held at 1 pm, on Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024, at Allison Funeral Service, with Bro. Herman Moore and Bro. Lonnie Jordan officiating. A graveside service and committal will immediately follow in Guedry Cemetery.
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Beautiful woman