Obituary of Ernestine D. McElvene

BALLSTON LAKE- Ernestine “Ernie” Daniels McElvene, 84, passed away May 13, 2023 from a brief battle with cancer. She was surrounded by loved ones as she made the transition, to where she is no longer suffering. Ernestine was born November 9, 1938 in Cairo, Georgia to Louise Ella Evans and York Daniels. Ernestine had several brothers and sisters that loved her dearly. She spent a significant amount of time in New Haven, Connecticut with her Aunt Evonne, Uncle Willie and Grandma Carrie. Ernestine attended Wilberforce University and received her Bachelor of Science in Biology. While at Wilberforce, she was crowned Miss Wilberforce 1963-1964. She was also nominated to be one of the Best Dressed on campus, where she was always dressed fashionable in the latest trends. Upon graduation from Wilberforce, Ernestine began her graduate study at The College of St. Rose. While at St. Rose she received her degree in Secondary Education. Ernestine’s work history was diverse, but she always wanted to help others be successful and have fulfilling lives. Ernestine worked as a Cancer Researcher, at Albany Medical Center, from 1964 -1973. Ernestine also took a position, as Rehabilitation Coordinator, at Northeast Career Planning where she wore many hats. There she worked as Office Manager and Rehabilitation Service Coordinator, as well as Job Club Coordinator. Ernestine was also dedicated to serving with the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. As well, she was a member of The Girl Friends, Incorporated where she was a member of the Albany and Buffalo Chapters. She initially joined the Albany Chapter of Girlfriends in 1969 and eventually achieved the elite National Girl Friends, Incorporated designation of Emeritus. In both organizations she was a model of exemplary friendship to all that she came in contact with for the majority of her adult life. Ernestine’s proudest accomplishment was raising her three children. Her love for Daryl, Leatrice “Lea” and Kevin was unmatched by any other. She spent numerous hours cheering them on at various sporting events, music recitals and band concerts. She was heavily involved in every aspect of their lives, for which they are forever grateful. Ernestine was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 50 years and her high school sweetheart, Jesse. She was also preceded in death by her brothers Grant, Jackie and Carl. Her sisters that went before included Sheila, Darlene and Mirinda. Ernestine is survived by her three children Daryl (Kirsten), Leatrice (Timothy) and Kevin. She is also survived by her brothers Terry (Diane), Michael and sister Margo (Howard). Ernestine leaves behind many great friends that she also cherished. Ernestine was the proud Nana of 8 grandchildren: Julia, Darien, Jasmine, Tre’ Brandon, Cameron, PJ and Ella. We are all so blessed to have had her in our lives. May she rest in peace with the knowledge that we will never forget the impact she had on our lives. She will be forever loved and is greatly missed! We love you, Mom! We love you, Nana! Cremation has taken place through the care of Simple Choices, Inc. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 29, 2023 at 11 o'clock at the Jonesville United Methodist Church, 963 Main Street, Clifton Park, NY 12065. Fond Memories and Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com