Mrs. Ernestine Messer Burkhalter's Obituary
Funeral Service for Mrs. Ernestine Messer Burkhalter, 93, of Alexander City, Alabama, will be Wednesday, August 9, 2023 at 2:00 pm at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Rev. Tim Harris will officiate. Burial will follow in the Hillview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, August 9, 2023 from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm at Radney Funeral Home.
Ernestine Messer Burkhalter, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2023, in Alexander City, AL. Born on May 16, 1930, in Tallapoosa County, AL, Ernestine lived a long, fulfilling life characterized by love, generosity, and a deep faith.
Ernestine worked diligently as a Lab Technician, a profession she thoroughly enjoyed. Her dedication to her work was evident and she was highly respected by her colleagues. Despite her busy work schedule, Ernestine never missed an opportunity to be involved in community events and associations, demonstrating her commitment to service and her love for her community.
Ernestine's interests were as diverse as they were numerous. A woman of deep faith, she loved the Lord with all her heart, and this love radiated through her actions and interactions with others. She had a passion for cooking, often delighting her family and friends with her delicious meals. Ernestine also had a deep love for travel, exploring new places, and experiencing different cultures.
She was a woman who cherished her family above all else. Her love for her family knew no bounds and she proudly watched them grow, providing them with unwavering support and love. Her family includes her daughter, Margaret Burkhalter McManus; her son, Artis Kenneth Burkhalter (Martha); her grandchildren, Chris McManus (Melissa), Niki McManus, Jeffery McManus (Ashley), Brooke Rowell (Marty), Jill Gamble (T.J.), Justin Burkhalter (Brittanye), Nikki Traylor, Erin Traylor, and Steven Traylor; her great-grandchildren, Jacob Scott, Reed Scott, Autumn McManus, Dawson McManus, Zack McManus, Chase McManus, Peyton McManus, Melody Holenchick, Jordan Rowell, Coley Rowell, Jackson Rowell, Will Gamble (Lexie), Amielya Gamble, Ava Gamble, Bella Burkhalter, Olivia Burkhalter, London Burkhalter, Landon Burkhalter, Mason Traylor, Ava Traylor, and McCoy Moon; and her great great grandchild, Isla Gamble.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Artis Burkhalter; and sisters, Alice Pearl Talley, Ruby Messer, Nelda Jo Davidson, and Mary Ruth Hooks; great great-grandchild, Carter Gamble.
Ernestine had a soft spot for nature, especially hummingbirds. She would often spend her afternoons watching them flit about in her garden. In her quiet moments, she enjoyed working on word search puzzles, a hobby that kept her mind sharp and active. Ernestine loved life and lived hers to the fullest, bringing joy and happiness to those around her.
Ernestine will be remembered for her loving nature, her generosity, and her unwavering faith. She was a beacon of light in her family and community, her vibrant spirit touching the lives of those she met. Her legacy of love, faith, and generosity will live on in the hearts of her loved ones.
Ernestine's life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and generosity. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing her. As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate her life, remembering the joy, laughter, and love she brought into our lives.
Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be given to, Comer Memorial Baptist Church, 341 E. Church Street, Alexander City, AL 35010.
What’s your fondest memory of Ernestine?
What’s a lesson you learned from Ernestine?
Share a story where Ernestine's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Ernestine you’ll never forget.
How did Ernestine make you smile?
