Toni Renee Earnest

Renee Earnest, 54, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, March 19, at her home in Memphis, TN. She was born April 21, 1962, in Okolona, MS to James Robert and Wilma Earnest. Renee graduated from Okolona High School in 1980, from Northeast Mississippi Community College in 1982, and received a BS in Education from The University of Mississippi in 1984. She began her teaching career in Louisiana where she taught two years and then spent the next twelve years teaching in Desoto County and Shelby County. In 1998 her career path transitioned into entertainment management, where she remained until her death. She had the opportunity to travel the world extensively and lived a very full and vibrant life.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Frank Sr. and Etta Long of Okolona, MS, and her paternal grandparents, Robert Earnest and Oniece Earnest, both of Okolona, MS.

She is survived by her parents, James Robert and Wilma Earnest; her sister, Susan Earnest Butler; beloved nephew and niece, Jake Butler and Mattie Butler; and Bridgette Stidham and her children, Trent Harmon and Riley Elliot. She also leaves behind several aunts, uncles, and cousins whom she loved dearly and two very special friends Cathy Garrett and Lenore Turner.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, March 23, 2017, at First Baptist Church in Okolona, MS, at 1:00pm with visitation beginning at 10:00am.

Renee was a beloved teacher, valued employee, cherished friend, and devoted family member. The void she leaves will never be filled.