Grief and love are conjoined. You don't get one without the other.
Obituary
Ernest Devon Woods, a cherished son, uncle, brother, and friend, passed away on July 23, 2024, at the age of 59. Born on February 9, 1965, Ernest lived a life filled with love, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to those around him.
Ernest was a devoted uncle to Chaz, Journey, Keason, Giselle, Mya, Nathan, Donald, Al, Legend, Legacy, Ashanti, Mezariah, and his first great-niece, Kaia. Though he did not have children of his own, he shared a deep and abiding love with his two brothers, Rodney and Deven Woods, creating a family bond that was admired by all who knew them.
A proud graduate of Everett High School in 1983, Ernest was known for his vibrant personality and was a beloved member of the social group "The Dogs." His passion for dance was evident as a member of Everett High School's well-known dance team, a joy he carried with him throughout his life.
Ernest's career was marked by dedication and service. He began as a Correction Officer and later worked as a Store Assistant Manager. His pursuit of personal and professional growth led him back to college, where he earned a degree in Social Work from Siena Heights University. He then served the City of Lansing before finding his calling as an Associate Teacher with the Lansing School District.
In addition to his professional achievements, Ernest was a devoted caregiver to his mother, Ernestine Woods, for the past ten years as her health declined through the years. His love and unwavering commitment to her care were evident to all who knew him.
Ernest was known for his generosity and willingness to help family, friends, and community members. Whether offering a seat at his dinner table or delivering a meal to someone's home, his acts of kindness were numerous and heartfelt. He had a keen sense of fashion and was a passionate fan of Diana Ross, whose music brought him immense joy.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Ernestine Woods, and his father, Roy Brinklin siblings Paul Summerville, and sister Sharmele Branklin. He is survived by his brothers, Rodney Woods (Jennifer), Deven Woods (Katrina), Roy Branklin Jr., Thomas Branklin, Al Ansley, and sisters Lisa Mitchell, and Toia Branklin, who will miss him dearly.
A Celebration of Life will be held on August 17, 2024, at 2 p.m. at the Highlands Cooperative Association in Lansing, Michigan. Ernest's legacy of love, kindness, and community spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
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I met Ernest in 2015 when I first started working for the State of Michigan. He was in the 8 week training class with me because he was doing foster care at that time. We literally have remained very good friends since then. We would call each other brother and sister because of our close relationship.
I am shaken, hurt, angry, and I trying to process this. I missed the memorial. I missed meeting his family. 😢
To the family…my thoughts and prayers are with you all because you have experienced soo much within these few months. I cannot imagine the pain and grief ❤️ Ernest loved his family especially his nieces and nephews. He was soo happy about his new niece.
I will forever miss Ernest and he will never be forgotten.
Signed~ A lost and heartbroken friend.
Since were couldn’t get together in person, we stayed in touch through texting regularly and having long phone conversations once or twice a week.
I remember many of my phone calls with Ernest having bouts of laughter.. The kind of laughter where nothing could be heard but air and breath!
We laughed over funny things that happened in our day or week, and supported each other through the not so funny things.
Ernest and I could relate on so many things, and often attributed this to our “Aquarius” connection, since our birthdays were only a week apart.
One of the recent memories I have with Ernest, happened when I was going through a hard time. I just had major back surgery and wasn’t able get around very well or drive. During the same week of my surgery, sadly, my beloved dog, Roxie was dying.
Ernest came by several times during that period and helped me clean up after her, until I had to make the decision to let her go. Ernest, without hesitation, offered to drive me to the place where I had to put Roxie down. He stayed with me the whole time, and comforted me. I remember him hugging me a lot while I sniffled and bawled on his shoulder. He was so supportive, and kept saying the sweetest things to me during that whole process.
Ernest Woods was one of my BEST friends.. and not jut because we knew each other for 45 years, .and not just because we had a great connection. But also because Ernest always presented himself as a wonderful friend and person through his words and actions. Ernest was a loving, kind, considerate, and caring, soul. He was truly one of a kind. I will carry the beautiful memories that I have of Ernest in my heart forever.
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