Earnestine Holden

It is with profound love that we announce the passing of Earnestine Holden, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend. Earnestine transitioned peacefully into eternal rest on October 11, 2025, at the age of 88, at Sanctuary Hospice in Tupelo, MS. Born on January 9, 1937, Earnestine led a life rich in love and creativity. As a devoted seamstress in the factory industry, she used her talents to bring joy and warmth to her family and community. 

Earnestine was known as the "crafting queen," dedicating countless hours to express love through her delightful creations. Her culinary skills shone through in her beloved kitchen, where she found serenity in cooking and canning, filling her home with the comforting scents of her favorite dishes. A loyal member of Thaxton Baptist Church, she embraced her faith and actively participated in the Joy Group, fostering bonds with others in her community. Earnestine’s love for her family was boundless, and she took immense pride in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, finding her greatest joy in their achievements and happiness. 

Earnestine is survived by her loving spouse of 69 years, Alton Holden, her son Terry Holden (Debbie Black Holden), daughter, Mona Weeden (Jimmy Dale Weeden), sons-in-law Bobby Shettles and grandchildren Todd Shettles (Michelle) Kurt Shettles (Jane Claire), Heather Deaton, Bubba Greer (Lindsay Greer), Alanna Bledsoe (Mark), Jodi Forsyth (Josh) and Brittany Roberson (Will).

Earnestine was preceded in death by her parents, Shadrach Meshach Abednego Gafford and Georgia Jumper Gafford, daughter, Teresa Shettles and granddaughter Mandy Gillespie.

Her life will be celebrated on Saturday, October 18, 2025. The family will welcome loved ones for a visitation at Thaxton Baptist Church, beginning at 12:00 PM with a funeral service to be held at 2:00 PM, where we will gather to honor her life and legacy in joyous remembrance. Following the service, Earnestine will be laid to rest at Bethel Baptist Church Cemetery.

Bro. Mark Jones and Bro. Michael Waldrop will be officiating the services for Mrs. Holden.

Pallbearers will be Joseph Gillespie, Holden Gillespie, Tristen Gillespie, Gideon Deaton, Milo Forsyth, Match Forsyth, Grady Bledsoe, Channler Fleener and Zayne Fleener. Earnestine’s spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and her legacy will continue through the many lives she touched. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love she gave so generously in this life.

Memorials may be made in lieu of flowers to Thaxton Baptist Church Building Fund.

Glenfield Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the care and arrangements of Mrs. Holden.