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Ernestine Deborah Nelson was born Devore White to the late James White and late Caledonia Magnolia Thompson, July 8,1954 in Cleveland, Ohio. 3 days after birth she was adopted by the Late John Wesley Brennan (Papa Jack) and Emma D. Nelson. She was the 6th eldest of 21 children born to Caledonia and 1st of 2 born to James White; Jack and Emma had no other children. Ernestine departed this earthly life on Tuesday, November 15, 2022, with her children, grandchildren and family at her bedside at University Hospital.

Ernestine received Christ at an early age under leadership of Clough Thompson, Sr and Rev. Robert E. Lee at First Bethel Baptist Church. She would re-dedicate her life to Christ thru baptism at Cleveland Church of Christ under leadership of Bishop Lincoln C. Houghton, III. She was an active member until 2012 when she relocated to NC. She returned to Cleveland in 2018.

Ernestine received her education through Cleveland Public schools. She graduated from Jane Addams High school and went on to attend Tri-C, obtaining an associate degree in medical assistant. She graduated Tri-C in 1983 with honors. She worked at St. Vincent Charity Hospital until life circumstances made it difficult for her to continue employment.

Ernestine was united in marriage to Johnny Brown in 1974, from this union 2 children were born. This union was dissolved after 13 years. She would later meet the love of her life James W. Thomas Sr and unite in marriage on November 28, 1985, with Clough Thompson, Sr officiating, from this union 1 child was born and 2 extended children were gained in love.

At age 2, she received 2nd and 3rd degree burns while playing around a hot water tank. Her parents were told she needed extensive care and would not bear children; Well God's plan was different. Her first born was conceived at age 18 by her high school sweetheart. Her children were her pride, but her grandchildren were her heart and soul. Ernestine, known as Debra to family and friends, was the no nonsense one of the Thompson sisters.

Ernestine was preceded in death by her daughter Ulonda Yvette; 12 sisters including Claudia Henrietta, Virginia, Ann, and Wanda. 2 brothers Clough (Boopie) and Charles (Chucky). 1 sister departed less than 12 hours after her on (11-16-22) Carol Magnolia Thompson.She leaves to cherish her memory: four children, Terrance Thompson of Toledo, Ohio, T. Tamika Thompson of North Carolina, Tamara Nelson of Cleveland, and Monique Patterson (Edward) of Cleveland; two stepchildren James W Thomas (Annette) and Faye Thomas (Ernie) of Akron, Oh.; six grandchildren: Terrance Jr., Tashontia, Tashawney (Elijah) of Killeen, Tx, Tahliyia, Jazzmyn, Edward Jr. and Mariah; two great children Carter and Tai Lani. 17 extended grandchildren and 62 extended great-grandchildren; 2 sisters Fran Blair and Theola White; one brother Tignor Blair. A host of nieces and nephews and friends.

Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my father's house is many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you unto myself; that were I am, there ye may be also -John 14:1-