Charlene Wier Earnest, a native of Tioga, La., and a longtime resident of Daphne, died peacefully Sunday, May 23, 2010 at her home surrounded by her family.
She wanted to be remembered for loving God and her family. She will also be remembered for her vitality, zest for life, as well as her love of the arts, music, football and NASCAR.
Upon graduation from Tioga High School and attending Northwestern, she was a graduate and instructor of John Robert Powers Modeling Schools. Her marriage to Air Force fighter pilot, Wilburn James Smith, allowed her to live in France, New Mexico and Florida. As a military wife, she was active in the Officers Wives Club. She was a devoted mother and grandmother and was very involved as a Brownie/Girl Scout leader, home room mother, PTA officer and was involved in various civic activities.
In 1984, she and her husband, Chalmos Earnest, relocated to the Gulf Coast, enjoyed living in Lake Forest and spent many special times in Gulf Shores with granddaughter, Sabra. She was an exceptional cook who loved entertaining, decorating and making all holiday events special for family and friends. Her family is so thankful for the quality time spent together.
Throughout her life, she owned and operated Performing Arts Studios in Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida and Alabama allowing her to develope the creative talents of many young people. She belonged to many professional organizations.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie Boyd and Beaulah Olive Tullis Wier of Tioga.
Survivors include her husband of 30 years, Chalmos R. Earnest of Daphne; two daughters, Sonya G. Smith of Daphne and Aleesha Smith (Frank) Palombo of Mobile; step-son, Russ Earnest of Panama City, Fla.; the “light of her life,” granddaughter, Sabra Lea Smith of Baton Rouge, La.; and her cherished furry companion, “Chin-Chin.”
Her family offers special thanks to Dr. Michael A. Finan and the staff of USA Mitchell Cancer Institute; Dr. Ron Russell and staff of Mobile Infirmary and Thomas Hospital staff for their care and concern. Also thanks to the Rev. Steve Rascoe, the Rev. Marg Perrelli and Daphne United Methodist Church for their prayers and support.
Visitation begins at 9 a.m. with entombment at 11 a.m. Friday, May 28 at Forest Lawn Memorial Park Mausoleum Chapel, Ball, La.
The family requests memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society or The Haven in Fairhope.
Arrangements are by Hughes Cremation & Funeral Service, Daphne. On-line condolences may be made at hughesfuneralservice.com.
