Ernestine Akins Shiver “Nanny”

Published 9:00 am Saturday, January 16, 2016

Ernestine Akins Shiver “Nanny” was a mother to many in her church and the Jones Community. 

She was born Sept. 26, 1932 in Bainbridge, Ga., to the late Early Peat and Eloise Benion. Her mother passed away when she was five years old, and her great aunt Allie Akins became the only mother she ever knew. She was educated in the Lowndes County School system.

Raised in a Christian home, at the age of 13, she became a member of the Hosanna Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Brothers, and  she remained faithful until her death. As a member, she wore many hats. She was Choir President, a member of the Golden Girls, and Church Mother. Mother Shiver will always be remembered for her cooking and hospitality. She always had a plate for any and every one that came to her home. She loved her church and praised God for allowing her to attend service just one more time in 2016. On Thursday, Jan. 14, 2016, Ernestine Shiver was called home to be with the Lord. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Ell Shiver Sr., and her sister, Tommie Lee Aikens. 

She leaves to cherish her memories, five devoted children, John Robinson (Terri), Hazel Shiver, Felicia Williams (Monroe), Ralph Shiver, Daphne Bryant Kennedy; three grandchildren who were raised as her children, Dameion Shiver, Tiffanie Shiver Warren-Williams (Kendrix), and Markia Shiver; one  devoted niece, Ava Burgman; 12 grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends. 

Funeral  services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 17, 2016 at Union Cathedral. Bishop Wade S. McCrae is Pastor and Overseer Felicia Williams will officiate. Burial to follow in the Odd Fellow Cemetery in Lake Park, Ga. The family will receive  friends today, Jan. 16, 2016  from 4-6 p.m. at Hosanna Baptist Church in Lake Park, Ga. — Professional arrangements are entrusted to Serenity Funeral Home & Cremation Service.