Ernestine Dove

Born to God-fearing parents (Carrie & Arthur Carter, Sr.) on October 26, 1925, Ernestine Elizabeth Carter Dove has always been blessed by loving family and loyal friends. Humble beginnings in Wilmington, NC fueled her strong sense of devotion to God, church, family, community and country.

Ernestine was the first of three children (Arthur Jr & Robert Carter) -- where she was often doted-on as the only girl in the pack. She graduated from Williston High School in Wilmington, NC. She went on to graduate nursing school, where she was certified as a Registered Nurse, and gained a small consort of lifelong & cherished friends.

WWII found the US Army short on medical professionals. In 1942, Ernestine answered a military call to train as a Nurse Cadet. The war ended within the year. Many years later, however, Ernestine (along with a number of her peers) became immortalized in the “Women in the Military” exhibit at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington VA.

It was in Greensboro, NC while working as a student nurse, that she met a charming & ambitious orderly - Jesse Lee Dove. Jesse & Ernestine were married August 8, 1949 in Greensboro, NC. Their union produced, two devoted daughters - Janice Dove Johnson/Paul Sr. and Betryn Dove Byrd/Michael; eight adoring grandchildren – Nikki Johnson, Paul Johnson Jr, Jessica Byrd, Davon Johnson, Rosalyn Johnson, David Byrd, Patrice Johnson & Kendra Johnson; and seven energetic great-grandchildren - Nicholas Sharma, Alexander Sharma, Gregory Johnson, Erik Byrd, George Silcott III, Laura Byrd & N’Kijah Archibald.

In 1953, Ernestine & Jesse relocated to Washington, DC where they nurtured their growing family, advanced their careers and contributed to the community. Ernestine’s nursing career spanned from entry-level nurse at DC General Hospital, to the first Black Emergency Room Head Nurse at The George Washington University Hospital. Community actions included Saturday morning youth programs at the Tivoli Theatre in NW DC; President and Board Member of the Barney Neighborhood House; lifetime membership in the Disabled American Veterans; PTA President; and Precinct Captain for the DC Board of Elections. She had a thirst for politics, civic & social change and could frequently be found in the gallary of the House of Representatives on Capital Hill marveling at the legislative process.

Ernestine served under Elder Jesse L. Dove as First Lady, Samuel Church of Christ, Disciples of Christ, Inc. from 1974 until he died in 1994. The church was later renamed Samuel Christian Services Network, Inc. after its outreach ministry that provided a wide range of services to risk exposed DC youth ranging from transitional housing for women in recovery with children to the National Title IX Conference and Classic held annually in December at the DC Armory. She maintained ties to the church until her passing at the age of 93.

Mother Dove loved the Lord and had a very special relationship with her oldest grandson, Davon who lovingly referred to her as “my oldie” and always made time to laugh, sing and reminisce with her. In her final moments, she could be heard softly singing God’s praises with Davon by her bedside.

The family of Mother Ernestine Dove extends their gratitude to friends and family near and far who, through thoughts, words or deeds, have shown her love over the course of her life. The family also has a heartfelt thank you to Bishop Darryl Rouse for officiating this service and to the staff of Health Management Inc. who helped make it possible for Mother Dove to enjoy her final years and hours in her own home. - Selah