Ernestine Reynolds, 60, of Mariposa, passed away unexpectedly at Mercy Medical Center.

Ernestine was born in Merced to Chester and Effie Grissom. She spent most of her life in the Merced area and lived in Mariposa for the last 24 years with her loving and devoted companion, Arvin Redding.

Ernestine was a vivacious woman, with a great since of humor and an amazing love for her family. Her family didn’t just include her children and distant relatives; it also included her beloved collection of more than 50 parakeets, several other bird species and eight shih tzus. She greatly enjoyed being outdoors fishing, and occasionally enjoyed trying her luck at her favorite casino with a trip to Chukchansi Gold Resort. She was full of life and it showed with her love of country music and dancing. Above all, Ernestine enjoyed and treasured the time she spent with her children and grandchildren. 

Ernestine is survived by her companion of 25 years Arvin Redding; children, Gary Crawford and Anthony Reason, both of Modesto and Dale Reason and Pam Reason, both of Mariposa; siblings, Dale Grissom and Pamela Reason, both of Delhi; and eight grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, April 20 at Winton Cemetery, Winton. 

Allen Mortuary is entrusted with the arrangements.