Ernestine Nealy, 83, of Lakeland (formerly of Palatka), entered the sunset of life on Saturday, October 29, 2022 at Lakeland Regional Medical Center. The daughter of William "Bud" Nealy, Sr. and Ella Gussie (Johnson) Nealy, she was born on July 31, 1939 in Rebecca, GA. At an early age, the Nealy family relocated to Palatka, Florida. Ernestine was educated in the Putnam County School District at Central Academy. In 1977, Ernestine relocated to St. Augustine. She was employed as a Parking Enforcement Specialist for the City of St. Augustine, until her retirement in 1986. Upon retirement, Ernestine returned to Palatka until 2011 when she moved to Lakeland.

"Mother Nealy" as she was affectionately known, was a former member of Victorious Faith Church of God in Christ, under the leadership of Superintendent H. Wayne Colbert and Soul Mission Church of God in Christ, under the leadership of Elder Alonzo Mulberry, where she served faithfully on the Mother's Board as well as the Pastor's Aide President. In Lakeland, she continued faithfully serving the Lord in likewise capacities respectively at City of Refuge Church of God in Christ, under the leadership of Superintendent Walter Jenkins.

Ernestine enjoyed playing on the Women's softball city league team as well as fishing. She especially loved caring for the elderly and serving as a companion to many. Additionally, she was a noted poet and would have an inspirational poem to share at every family gathering.

In addition to her parents, Ernestine was preceded in eternal rest by 23 brothers and sisters.

She leaves to cherish her memories: a host of loving nieces and nephews, especially her two special nieces/caregivers, Gloria Strong, Faye Wright; godchildren, LaBraun Harris, Unique Castor, Alteondra Williams; spiritual daughter, Leila Walker; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Visitation of family and friends: 4-6 p.m., Friday, November 4, at Flagg's Chapel of Serenity. A Celebration of Life will be held 11 a.m., Saturday, November 5, at Mt. Tabor 1st Baptist Church, 4909 St. Johns Ave., Palatka. Her nephew, Elder Jarvis F. Wright, Sr., New St. Paul Church, Seville, Pastor, is the eulogist. Internment: Pattersonville Cemetery, East Palatka.