Ernestine Harris, 86, of Poughkeepsie, New York went to sleep in death on Friday, September 12, 2025, at Westchester Medical Center in Valhallas surrounded by loving family.

She was born January 11, 1939, in Whitakers, NC, she was the daughter of the late Corine Grant (Mayo) and Willie Grant. On May 5, 1966, she married Curtis Harris Sr who predeceased her. She was also predeceased by her brother Teddy Daniels.

On March 14, 1992, Ernestine dedicated her life to Jehovah God but "not on her strength alone', she became recognized for being deeply involved in her faith, like mailing out bible tracts to different ones. She easily dropped big and small hints for her family to go to the Hall or attend the annual Memorial of Jesus Christ.

Ernestine was a feisty woman full of life who truly enjoyed spending time around her family, longtime friends, and preaching with her congregation especially while telling stories or jokes.

She was also known for being compassionate and willing to approach and assist a person down on their luck with encouraging (spiritual) words, a few dollars, food or clothing. She had a passion for music, word searches, and down home cooking such as pig feet, hushpuppies, and oxtails. She was a woman with a great sense of humor and a contagious laugh. She loved getting a new Woman's World magazine to read and watching Hallmark or any cute movie that brought her joy or laughter with a good uplifting ending. She loved wearing her red lipstick anytime and being fashionably dressed with her hair done just right. In later years, she was regularly seen wearing a leopard hat or a turban especially her favorite light purple one that became a trademark.

She is survived by her children: Shari Mayo-Wallace (Kelvin), Curtis Harris Jr. (Tasha), Tina Harris, Keith Harris, and Terrence Harris. Additionally, Ernestine leaves behind nine grandchildren: Naquan Harris, Kelcey Wallace (Marcia), Keldon Wallace (Melia), Azuli Harris (Sarah), Cameron Chapman and partner Amber, Quentin Chapman, Jalen Harris, Harrison Ford, and Chase Harris. Great grandchildren, Lily, Noah, Bella, Scarlett, and Brian. Even from a distance never forgotten. Her dialysis & breakfast team: Patricia Lee her longtime Ruth and daughter from another mother plus companions Deborah and Bridgette.

Ernestine received special morning calls and kept in regular contact sharing past experiences and laughter with a long list of beloved family, friends, brothers and sisters too numerous to name from NY, DC, MD, FL & more.

Ernestine was predeceased by a host of loved ones.

A memorial service will take place on Saturday September 20th at 2pm at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 30 Manchester Circle, Poughkeepsie, NY 12603.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sweet's Funeral Home, Rte. 9, Hyde Park.

To send an online condolence, please visit www.sweetsfuneralhome.com.