Earnestine Runnels was born on May 30, 1936 in Gladewater, Texas to the parents of Joe and Ollie Wright. She graduated from Weldon High School in Gladewater, Texas and later moved to Dallas, Texas.

She united with Bethany Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Sloan.

Loved ones who preceded her in death her husband Kirk Runnels, her parents: Joe and Ollie Wright, (5) brothers: Junior Van , Freedy Van, Jessie Lee Van, Cornelious Van and James Van, (4) children: Edward Charles Davis Jr., May Frances Smith, Damon Davis and Henry Davis, (2)        grandchildren: LaKesha Gamble, and Melvin Davis Jr.

Earnestine leaves behind to cherish her memories (3) children: Gloria Matthews (Dave), Melvin Davis (Frances) and Michael Davis (Tonuia); (8) grandchildren: Shanikiqwa Gamble-Chatman, Markey Hamilton (Schenelda), Brandy Simms, Terrence Smith (Tanya), Tiffany Smith, Morris Davis (Shameka), LaToya Williams (Aaron) and Shada Jones (Jermaine); (22) great grandchildren along with a host of other family and                            friends who will miss her dearly.