Earl Booker Tunstall Sr.

Earl was born on July 14, 1938, in East St. Louis, Illinois. He was the beloved son of Rosie Lee Jackson and Johnny Tunstall. His family relocated to Indianapolis, IN when he was a young boy. He grew up on the east side of Indianapolis and attended Tech High school. Earl received a certificate for successfully completing a headquarters educational program in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Service and Maintenance at York Division, Borge-Wamer Corporation in York, Pennsylvania. He dedicated 21 years to his career as a refrigeration and air conditioning technician at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital, retiring in 1979.

Earl professed his belief in Christ at an early age and was baptized at Eastern Star Baptist Church under Reverend Weeden. He was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters; Margarette White, Mignonette Woods, Valeria Dowdy; three brothers, Johnny, Richard and Vernon Tunstall.

Earl, affectionately known as “Burt” or “Bird” to some, was a family-oriented man and an incredible father figure to many. He enjoyed talking to and mentoring young men, encouraging them to do the right things in life.

Earl’s passions revolved around gardening and maintaining his immaculate yard. He also took pride in helping his children with their yards. Additionally, Earl had a knack for fixing things around the house. He was plumber, HVAC repairman, car mechanic, electrician, etc. There was nothing Earl wouldn’t tackle to repair, and he was always willing to lend a helping hand to others.

Every summer Earl loved taking his family on trips to Memphis, Tennessee, to visit his mother’s hometown. There, he maintained close relationships with many family members and regularly checked in on them. Earl was known for his entertaining nature and hosting lively backyard barbecues during the summer. His witty humor, upbeat and positive attitude, and ability to make everyone feel welcome made him a beloved figure. Earl and his wife enjoyed attending dances and jazz concerts, and they occasionally tried their luck at the casinos. He also had a passion for playing checkers and would meet with friends every week at Lafayette Square Mall to engage in friendly games. In his younger years, Earl was an avid sports enthusiast, particularly enjoying baseball, ran track, basketball and high jumping. His favorite movies were all Cowboy films he enjoyed watching.

Earl was highly regarded, and his confidence was truly admired. He was not afraid to express his thoughts and opinions. He had an uncanny ability to strike up a conversation with anyone and get to know them. He will be remembered for his kindness and caring nature towards everyone who knew and loved him. Earl consistently offered supportive advice and guidance. Additionally, he was a keeper of many memories and family history. He often shared stories of his childhood, reminiscing about the times he spent with his parents and siblings.

Earl, a devoted husband and attentive father, cherished his family above all else. He was a family man through and through, always prioritizing the well-being of his loved ones. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Doris (Turner) Tunstall; his children, Earl Jr. (Alisa), Jeffrey, Karla and Keslie Tunstall; and his five grandchildren, Earl III, Christy, Donovan, Stephen, Tamitha and seven great-grandchildren; also, many nieces, nephews and cousins and close friends. His love for his family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be greatly missed.

A visitation will be held at Crown Hill Funeral Home, located at 700 W. 38th St., Indianapolis, IN, 46208, on February 14, 2026, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm.

A Celebration of Life will follow at the same venue, beginning at 1:00 pm.