Earl Earnest, a cherished husband and devoted father, passed away on June 18, 2024, at the age of 74. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and boundless generosity. He was preceded in death by his parents James and Virginia Earnest and his sister Millie Lawson.
Born in North Matewan, West Virginia, on February 2, 1950, Earl was the son of the late James and Virginia Earnest. He grew up in Carlsbad, New Mexico and graduated from Carlsbad Senior High School before embarking on a journey that would define his life's passions and successes.
Earl's warm and sociable nature endeared him to everyone he met. He was known for his genuine desire to help others; always lending a hand whether it was fixing a car, sharing a meal, or simply offering a listening ear. Earl's dedication to his family was unparalleled, and he eagerly shared his wisdom and humor with his children, grandchildren, and extended family.
On August 3, 2024, Earl and his beloved wife Juanita were set to celebrate their 37th wedding anniversary, a testament to their enduring love and companionship. Earl found joy in his daily trips to Fry's where he would meticulously select scratcher tickets and lottery numbers and his nightly ritual of checking lottery results with hopeful anticipation.
Earl was a devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys. He also enjoyed country music and spent many evenings watching his favorite shows like HGTV, Deadliest Catch, and Gold Rush. Earl's culinary skills were legendary among family and friends, who relished his expertly cooked steaks, pinto beans, ham, and homemade butter rolls.
Professionally, Earl's greatest joy was being the proud owner of Earl's Family Steak & Seafood restaurant in Artesia, New Mexico, where his warmth and hospitality made every patron feel like family. He retired from Prudential Overall Company in Phoenix, Arizona.
Throughout his retirement, Earl cherished his daily visits to Fry's, where he developed lasting friendships with employees and often brought his grandchildren along, introducing them proudly to his Fry's family.
Earl's memory will forever be treasured by his wife Juanita (Hutchins) Earnest, children Kimberly Earnest, Alicia Evans, Deserae Jurado (and her husband Juan), and Jason Earnest, sister Betty McConnell, and brothers Rodney Earnest and Jimmy Earnest. He will also be missed by his eight grandchildren: Jonathan Saenz, Isaac Miranda, Jakob Miranda, Joseph Miranda, Seras Alva, Jacob Alva Jr, Ivan Jurado, and Jasiah Jurado, extended family, and countless friends whose lives he touched with his kindness and unwavering support.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made directly to Earl’s wife Juanita. Please contact the funeral home for details.
Earl's spirit will continue to shine brightly through the memories and stories shared by all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love and generosity will live on in our hearts forever.
A memorial is being planned for a later date.
