FRANKLIN—Ruth Ernestine Wales Johnson of Franklin transitioned from this earthly life to claim her reward on Aug. 16, 2010.

She was surrounded by her loving daughter, Raystine, and devoted caregivers Ida Artis, Ida Vaughan and Jessica Burke.

Ernestine was born in Williamsburg to Lewis Wellington Wales Jr. and Elvin Maude Parker Wales.

Ernestine was reared in a Christian home with parents who taught stringent morals and values.The experiences she gained from that environment remained a part of her life.

She was a graduate of Bruton Heights High School and matriculated at Virginia Union University.

After going to Virginia Union, Ernestine managed the family beauty shop at home in Williamsburg. She was a skilled cosmetologist and very proud of her accomplishments.

On July 7, 1957, Ernestine married Raymond Thomas Harris Johnson Sr. After their marriage, Ernestine became a licensed funeral director, enabling her to work along with her husband in his family business. The funeral home, Wm. M. Johnson & Sons, embodied her spiritual and philanthropic work.

Ernestine was preceded in death by her parents, husband and brother, Roland A. Wales.

Her memory will live forever in the hearts of her daughter, Raystine D. Johnson; stepchildren Raymond Johnson Jr., Charles Johnson, Orphesus Johnson; goddaughter Jackita Britt; sister Wilhelmina Zenobia Wales White and her husband, Harry, of Williamsburg; brothers Calvin F. Wales of Williamsburg and Thaddeus S. Wales of Philadelphia; nieces; the funeral home staff, Clinton Taylor, Charlie Ashburn Jr., John Lowe, Langford Harris, William B. Handshaw, Ann Johnson, Anne McNeill and Vita Lee Stokes; cousins; in-laws; and many caring friends.

A celebration of life will be held at noon Saturday, Aug. 21, at East End Church of God, 410 East St., Franklin, where Bishop S.D. Willis is pastor. The Rev. J.J. Ferguson will deliver the message of comfort. The Rev. Henry Blunt is presiding.

On the day of service, Ernestine’s remains will be placed in church for viewing by 10 a.m. A visitation service will be held 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the Move of God Church, 221 S. Main St.

The committal and benediction will be in Southview Cemetery.

The family will assemble at the funeral home for the funeral procession.