Earnestine Boutte

Earnestine Evans was born on August 17, 1926, in her childhood home in Fannin, MS, and she cherished her upbringing in the area she loved dearly. She was born to Mattie Pearl Brooks-Evans and Finch Evans and was the eldest daughter among her siblings.  Her siblings that preceded her in death were Otis, Earl, Arthur, Gladys, Louise and Percy. Throughout her childhood, Earnestine enjoyed playing jacks, marbles, and hopscotch with other children, cherishing the simple joys of life.

Her father affectionately called her "SIS," a loving nickname that held a special place in her heart. From her bedroom window, she had a beautiful view of the surrounding woods and fields of corn. Her room was adorned with two windows, a double bed, and a hutch, providing her with a cozy and comforting space.

Growing up, she attended church with her family, instilling in her the values of spirituality and faith. After church, she would visit her grandparents, where dinners consisted of delicious dishes like fried chicken, pork, and fresh vegetables from her grandmother's garden.

Among the best advice given to her by her mother, Mattie Pearl, was to always obey, attend church, be prayerful, mind her own business, and respect others' property. Her father worked diligently on his farm, while her mother lovingly cared for the children, cooked, cleaned, and tended to her garden. Each night, Mattie Pearl made sure Earnestine said the Lord's Prayer before bedtime, instilling a strong foundation of faith.

At the age of 14, Earnestine met Booker T Archie, and their love story began. Booker, a redheaded man, asked to walk her home, and eventually, they fell in love. After Booker served in the navy and asked for her hand in marriage, they moved to Toledo, OH, where they raised their three children, Marsha, Sharron, and Donald Lynn. In 1963, Earnestine and her children moved to Southern California, embarking on the next chapter of her life.

In 1969, she married Albert Boutte (known as Grandpa Al) and purchased her first home in Los Angeles on 'Stearns Dr,' where she enjoyed gardening, making sun tea on the patio, and entertaining friends. Earnestine had a passion for home décor, and her house was always impeccably styled.

As she moved into her later years, she stayed active by engaging in volunteer work with the Salvation Army and the Voters Registrar. Even in retirement, she continued enjoying her two favorite things, walking and driving. Ernestine took up transporting vehicles between all over Southern California.

Earnestine was the love of her family's life, leaving behind her beloved sibling Finch Evans Jr. (Darlene Evans), two children Sharron Peoples (Louis A. Peoples), and Donald Lynn Archie. She was preceded in death by her eldest daughter, Marsha Yvonne Jackson. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, all of whom cherish the beautiful memories and love she bestowed upon them.