With profound love and gratitude for a life well lived, we celebrate the life and legacy of Ernestine “Tina” Jones, who peacefully entered eternal rest on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.  
Born on March 21, 1941, Ernestine was a woman of quiet strength, unwavering love, and remarkable grace. She dedicated her life to caring for those she loved, leaving a nurturing legacy of authenticity, resolute strength, and kindness. 
A woman of deep faith, Ernestine was a faithful and active member of Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church in South Bend, Indiana, where she faithfully served for many years as President of the Nurses Ministry. She found great joy in serving others with compassion, humility, and a servant's heart, reflecting her unwavering commitment to both her church family and her community. 
Ernestine was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Nothing brought her greater joy than spending time with her family, encouraging those she loved, and sharing in life’s precious moments. Her life was a testament to perseverance, dignity, and unconditional love.  
Ernestine was preceded in death by her beloved son, Exzavier M. Jones Sr.; her parents, Deacon Manuel Jones and Mrs. Lovie Jones; one brother, McArthur Jones; four sisters, Rosie L. Jones, Emma Jean Mitchell, Ora Lee Burns, and Maggie Mae Jones; nieces, Danita Jones, Camilla Worsham, and Dalisa Buchanan; and nephews, Terrence Lamont Jones, Nathaniel Vincent Jr., and Troy Andrew Peake Jr.
She leaves to cherish her precious memory: her loving grandson, Exzavier M. Jones Jr., and his wife, Natalie I. Jones, along with their two children; her granddaughter, Yvette (Timothy) Bailey, along with their four children and four grandchildren; her adopted grandson, Rayjai Jones; her brothers, Manuel Jones Jr. of Kalamazoo, Michigan, and John Jones of Muskegon, Michigan; and her sisters, Pearline Vincent and Bonnie (Charles) Jones-Brandon, both of Kalamazoo, Michigan, and Christina Dean of South Bend, Indiana. 
She also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, dear friends, and loved ones who will forever cherish her memory and continue the legacy of love she leaves behind. 
 

“Well done, Thou good and faithful servant.” 
MATTHEW 25:21 (KJV)