Earline Edwards-Southern

Earline Edwards-Southern Obituary Earline Edwards-Southern, born on May 8, 1945, in Cleveland, Ohio, was the daughter of Willie Jane Roberts Edwards and David Edwards. She arrived just twenty minutes before her twin sister, Pearline, with whom she shared an extraordinary bond. Earline graduated from John Hay High School in Cleveland, Ohio, where she first embraced the values of hard work and dedication, principles that would guide her throughout her life. She went on to have a distinguished career as a Food and Nutrition Supervisor at the Cuyahoga County Job and Family Services Department, where her dedication to service made a lasting impact. Outside of her professional accomplishments, Earline was just as deeply committed to her faith, as evidenced through her volunteer work at St. Matthew United Methodist Church. As an active church member, she not only contributed her voice to the choir but also devoted her time and energy to the hot meals ministry. Above all else, Earline took the most pride in motherhood having welcomed her first son, Bruce Devaughn in 1963 and her youngest son, Roderick David in 1972. Throughout the years, Earline worked tirelessly to ensure that both Bruce and Roderick were supported in every way. Whether it was through their education, personal challenges, or milestones she served as a constant cornerstone in their lives. Earline’s close relationship with her twin sister Pearline fostered a unique and special bond with her niece Dawn Denise. In 1995, Earline found love when she married John Southern, the great love of her life. Their union brought her immense joy and fulfillment, as they shared companionship, and cherished experiences. Earline had a deep passion for travel, exploring new places with enthusiasm, but it was card games, especially bid whist—that truly brought her joy. Whether playing with family, friends, or loved ones, these moments of connection were dear to her, as they provided a special way to bond and create lasting memories with those, she held close. Earline was a woman of remarkable resilience and strength, known for her candidness and strong work ethic. She was a loving, no-nonsense mother, grandmother, and aunt who always placed her family at the heart of her life. She remained deeply rooted in family, staying in constant touch with her loved ones across Cleveland, Chicago, Alabama, and Detroit, nurturing bonds that spanned miles but never faded. Earline's straightforward nature and fierce commitment to those she loved were defining qualities that shaped every relationship she had. One of her greatest joys was celebrating with others; she loved a good party! On most days you could find her watching the Game Show Network, a basketball game or figure skating competition on television. Her legacy will live on through the love she gave, the lessons she imparted, and the unforgettable moments shared with family and friends alike. Earline is preceded in death by her parents: Willie Jane Roberts (Edwards-Dozier) and David Edwards; her beloved husband: John Southern; brother Donald Roberts; sisters Jerilynne Perison, Pearline Edwards- Arnold, Audrey Lewis, Eva Coleman, and Pamela Greene; niece Alecia Shanese Norfleet; nephew Eugene Perison, Jr.; aunt: Elizabeth Allen; uncles: James Roberts, Jr. and Richard, Roberts and grandparents: Pearl and James Roberts, Sr. She leaves behind a loving legacy through her children: Bruce (Karen) Edwards and Rod (Shawnna) Edwards; step-children: Prince (Felicia) Southern and Jacquese Southern; grandchildren: Arienne (Lorenzo) Hailes, Marcus Jennings, Ashanti (Tori) Southern, Brandon Edwards, Miya Edwards, and Jordyn Edwards; great-grandchildren: Naveah Edwards, LaMarcus Edwards, Royal Jones, Jordan Edwards, Zachariah Edwards, Amilliana Edwards, Kooper Edwards, Nova-Reign Edwards, and Ariyah Hailes; aunt: Ann Roberts; sister-in-law: Velma Roberts; brother- in- law: Dennis Greene; nephews: Charles Allen, Vance Allen, Curtis Lewis, Jr., Eric (Donna) Dozier, Lee (Dana) Boston, Sheldon Lewis, Aaron Greene, and Donald (Temperance) Greene; nieces: Renata Edwards, Erma Roberts-Miller, Dawn Marshall, Mona Boston, Jennifer Roberts, Carolyn (Demond) Pierson, Davida Coleman as well as a host of relatives, and friends who will forever remember and cherish her. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Earline Edwards-Southern, please visit our floral store. Read More

Earline Edwards-Southern

February 2, 2025