Ernestine Lilly

A celebration of life For Ernestine Holloway Lilly. Ernestine Holloway was born to the late Ernest Holloway and Katie Wilson Holloway. Brethren, we gather today to celebrate the homegoing of a beloved child of God, Ernestine Holloway Lilly, who was called to her eternal rest on December 23, 2024. Born on March 29, 1943, in the warm community of Cleveland, Ohio, Ernestine was a beacon of love and hope throughout her earthly journey.

She departed this life in the very city that had cradled her from her first breath, leaving behind a legacy of generosity, faith, and unwavering optimism. In 1962, Ernestine was joined in holy matrimony to John, the love of her life. Together they walked hand in hand, sharing joys and shouldering burdens until John was called home ahead of her. Their love was a testament to the covenant of marriage, a bond that not even death could sever. To that union was born Michael. Later, Terrell, Rayshunn and Felicia joined that union. Ernestine and John where both members of Greater Christian Tabernacle Evangelistic Church as pastors under the leadership of pastor Tossie Wiley until they both later joined Kingdom International Fellowship Center under pastors Gregory and Joyce Dorsey until John's passing and Ernestine's illness. She also fellowshipped with many other churches. Ernestine, was a true servant of the Lord from her youth. She was educated in the Cleveland Public School System, at Alexander Hamilton and later graduated from John Hay, where her passion for Early Childhood Development blossomed like a rose in spring. It was in these formative years that she dedicated herself to the nurturing and growth of young minds, particularly those of mentally handicapped children. Her career in the Cleveland Public School system at the Cuyahoga County Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities was not just a job, but a calling, a ministry where she served with grace and devotion until her well-earned retirement. Ernestine was also the Administrator of G&L Daycare where she employed many family and friends. She also was also a partner in Ramsey Realty where she housed many families. Ernestine's interests were as broad as her heart was wide. She found joy in traveling to distant lands, spending time with friends and family, especially her Grandchildren, but most importantly, helping others by delivering food and clothes, opening her home to those in need and reveling in the beauty of God's creation. Her laughter was a frequent guest in the homes of friends and family, where she cherished the fellowship and the simple pleasures of shared stories and meals. Yet, above all, it was her deep-seated desire to help others that defined her. She was the hands and feet of Christ, extending His love and compassion to all she encountered. Generous in spirit, Ernestine was a wellspring of kindness, always ready to give without thought of receiving. Her faith was the bedrock upon which she built her life, a faith that shone brightly, guiding her through the trials and tribulations of this world. And optimism? Ah, sisters and brothers, Ernestine carried an optimism that could outshine the darkest storm; she held fast to the belief that with God, all things are possible.

She was a legacy to leave behind for many. It is said, in the words of the great apostle Paul, "And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love." (1 Corinthians 13:13). Ernestine embodied this scripture, living a life rich in faith, brimming with hope, and overflowing with love.

Ernestine leaves behind to cherish her beautiful memories three sons: Michael, Terrell and Rayshunn. One daughter, Felicia and her former daughter in love, Bernadette, who she accepted as her own for the last 30 years. Her grandchildren include: Clifford, Tierra, D'Allante, Ta'Maya, Paul, Sharice, Rodneyta, Rodney, III and Roderick. Her great grandchildren are Tiyanni, Noah and Thea. She also leaves behind a host of friends and relatives. She also had two God children: John Cooper III and Joseph Preston, III and her companion, David Mills, until her death. Ernestine's closet friends include Florene Ashley, Minnie Ezell, Linda Miller, Ruby Rowell and Marva Smith. As we bid farewell to Ernestine Holloway Lilly, let us not dwell on the sorrow of her parting but rather rejoice in the knowledge that she has been received into the arms of her Savior. She has fought the good fight, she has finished the race, she has kept the faith. Now, there is in store for her the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to her on that day—and not only to her but also to all who have longed for His appearing (2 Timothy 4:7-8). Ernestine was a faithful worker in the Lord, the church and her community.

Ernestine will be missed. She enjoyed life and treasured her relationships with everyone she met. She will be remembered as a person who truly loved the Lord. May the life of Ernestine Holloway Lilly inspire us to walk with grace, to love without reservation, and to serve the Lord with gladness. Her memory shall be a blessing to all who knew her, and her spirit will live on in the countless lives she touched.

Good bye Ernestine. All those who put their faith in the Lord will see her again. SOMEONE IS MISSING

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