Ellen "Earlene" Hairston

On February 23, 1944, God blessed us with Mrs. Ellen Hairston better known as Earlene, born to the Late Vecue Kiser Mitchell and Blanche Victoria Mitchell in Rural Hall NC. On the night of October 2, 2024, Jesus gently and peacefully extended her an invitation, and he exchanged her life for eternity. She was educated in the public schools of Forsyth County and graduated from Carver High school in 1962. Ellen then began her career at R.J Reynolds Tobacco Company as a Machine Operator, where she worked until her retirement after more than 30 years of commendable service, she was well known for her strong work ethic and dedication to her job. 

“Earlene” was well loved by her friends and family, she was a devoted caregiver to her mother before her passing, embodying the nurturing spirit that defined her life. She cared for and raised many children over the years, instilling love and kindness in those around her. A passionate gardener, Earlene took great joy in tending to her flowers, creating beautiful spaces that reflected her vibrant spirit. She was also known for her love of cooking, particularly her sweet tea and the best pound cakes you will ever taste. Earlene cherished phone calls with her son and shopping trips with her daughters and granddaughters and enjoyed riding around the city, soaking in the sunshine and the endless love of her family. Ellen “Earlene” was a strong independent woman - a simple woman with a heart of gold, and a nurturing spirit. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved her, and we will always remember her for her warm hugs and radiant smile. To say she will be missed is an understatement; her legacy of love and care will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother The Late Phillip Mitchell (Loretta) and her sisters The Late Betty (Shelly) Giles and Gwendolyn (Jesse) Leonard. Those remaining to cherish her memory are her beloved husband of 42 years, William Hairston: four children Rodney Mitchell (Febe), Cheryl Gwyn, Carroll (Deron) Gunthrope and her youngest son Michael Hairston. Six grandchildren: Rayvonne Long, Rachelle Mitchell, Renee (Nik) Waldman, Chelsea Gwyn, KJ Gwyn, A'leah (Tywan) Howell; three great grandchildren Maximus Juarez, Eric Long and her youngest Caden Gwyn. Three brothers; Richard “Ray” (The Late Maxine) Mitchell, Jerry (Kathleen) Phillips, Christopher (Claire) Kimbrough, three sisters; Emily (Coleman) Rader, Cody (The Late Robert) Phillips, and Mary Jean Joyner; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

A funeral service will be conducted 11:00 AM Saturday October 12, 2024 at Hayworth-Miller Rural Hall Chapel with burial following at Crestview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.