Earnestine Rhodes Kelly, daughter of the late Eddie and Clara D. Rhodes was born July 14, 1953, in Jackson, Mississippi. She attended Lanier High School. She retired from Jackson Public School as the school chef.

She was loving, cheerful, and the life of the party. Her true passion was spending quality time with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, cousins, and friends.  She loved to host family gatherings, while serving her gourmet meals.

On October 28, 2022, Earnestine departed this life. She leaves her former husband, Alonzo Kelly Jr. as well as her children daughter Freshae Kelly, son Jerome Kelly, and daughter Erika Kelly and a half son Raphael Eleven, grandchildren, who affectionately called her " grandma/MA", Justin, Jameria, Janekia, Jacqueline, Jaylia, Jerome II, Jade, Endia, Nick, Logan, and Rashawn (RJ).

She leaves behind ten great grandchildren. She leaves behind one brother Kenneth Rhodes. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends who all loved her dearly.