Ernestine Lee Blake was born on November 6, 1935 in Bolton, Mississippi to the late Cliff and Susie Lee Harris. She was a twin, who preceded her in death. Susie later married George Lee, Sr. who raised Ernestine from an infant. Her other siblings also preceded her in death: George (Gloria) Lee, Barbara (Drayton) Rias, and Eugene (Pat) Lee. During her early childhood she moved to Jackson, Mississippi where she attended public school. She was in the graduating class of 1955 at Jim Hill High School. During her high school years in Jackson, she played on her school basketball team. She continued her education by attending Beauty School and became a licensed cosmetologist. She was part of the first African American Beauty Shop, Velvatex Hair Salon, that operated in Lansing, Michigan. She was also active in beauty pageants. Her work experience also included working at the Lansing School District and for General Motors, from which she retired.

Mother Blake accepted the Lord at an early age and later became a church worker and a soldier in the army of the Lord. She married the late James Blake, Sr. in 1957. To that union three children were born, which she leaves to cherish her life and memories: sons, James Blake Jr. and Marshuan J. Blake; daughter, Racine A. Blake; along with grandchildren, Jerrell Blake and Marshuan J. Blake, Jr.

In addition to being a mom, grandma, aunt, cousin, and neighbor, she was also a minister, church member, teacher, friend, counselor to family, friends, and strangers, a great cook, and above all a true child of God.

Arrangements for Ms. Blake are as follows: