Earnestine Dunton

Earnestine Dunton, 86, of Chattanooga, passed away Saturday, February 14, 2026, at her residence. Earnestine Player Dunton, affectionately known as “Tine” was the third of eight children born to the late Oliver and Isabell Player on April 13, 1939. Earnestine attended East 5th Street Elementary and Junior High School and graduated from Howard School, Class of 1957. At an early age Earnestine accepted Christ and was baptized by Rev, J.C. Clark of Gethsemane Baptist Church, that was the beginning of her spiritual growth. As an adult, Earnestine joined Mt. Canaan Baptist Church, under the pastorate of Rev. Melvin Jordan, where she continued serving and singing in the choir. She officially moved her membership to Second Missionary Baptist Church in 2017 and remained devoted and a faithful member until her health declined. During her marriage, she was blessed with three sons: Jeffrey, Ivan, and Shawn Corey. As a devoted homemaker, Earnestine dedicated herself to maturing and guiding her boys through their formative years. Earnestine was employed by Miller Brothers in downtown Chattanooga. She was also employed at Memorial hospital for 34 years. Earnestine had a special heart for the elderly, after styling their hair and polishing their nails, bringing dignity and joy to those served. She also visited Friendship Haven monthly, providing freshly baked pound cakes and ice cream to celebrate the residents’ birthdays, a gesture that reflected her sincere generosity and loving spirit. Earnestine was preceded in death by her parents, and her siblings, Constance Player, William Player, Mary Slaughter and James Player. Earnestine transitioned from Earth to Glory on Saturday, February 14, 2026. She leaves to cherish her precious memories to her sons Jeffrey Dunton (Toi), Ivan, and Shawn Corey Dunton, a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her sisters: Evelyn P. Lovelady of Chattanooga, TN, Olivia Wilson (Harry) of Las Vegas, NV, and Carolyn Pollard (Gary) of Kent, WA; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, dear friends, and especially her goddaughter (Kaylina Summers). She will lie-in-state on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 1-5 p.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will be Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Second Missionary Baptist Church with Dr. Ernest L. Reid, Jr. as the Eulogist.

Earnestine Dunton

April 13, 1939 - February 14, 2026