Ernestine Marie Boykins

Ernestine Boykins ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Metropolitan Funeral Service - Berkley Chapel on Mar. 5, 2026.With profound love and joy of a life well lived, we share the passing of our beloved mother, Ernestine Marie Boykins, who left this world peacefully on March 1, 2026, to be with our lord and savior with whom she fostered a life-long bond. Born February 1, 1944, in Norfolk, Virginia, Ernestine was the oldest of 3 children of Nellie Boykins (1928-1984). She was a lifelong resident of Norfolk and a valued resident in the Berkley community of South Norfolk for 53 years.Ernestine was a devoted mother and grandmother and is survived by her two children, Diane Basnight and Michael Boykins; her two brothers, Kenneth Boykins and Bernard Boykins; her six grandchildren, Donavon Basnight, Ashley Boykins, Alesha Basnight, Casey Boykins, Hallie Boykins, and Jacob Boykins; her great grandson, Kane Horton; her godson, Lemuel Armstrong and a host of cousins and other family members (by birth and by choice). She loved her family and was always a willing advisor or simply a good listener.Her faith and her true connection to Christ were the foundation of her kindness, humility, high moral character, and unwavering generosity to those who just needed a little help, as she liked to say. Ernestine was deeply involved in the community and, despite her small stature, she had an enormous impact. Through her work at the Virginia Employment Commission, where she worked in many supervisory roles during her 47 year career, she was instrumental in counseling and assisting individuals to achieve their financial and life goals. As a member of the church family at First Baptist Church Campostella for over 45 years, she faithfully served as Pastor's Aide, on the Hospitality, Kitchen, Trustee, and Usher Ministries, chairing the Trustee's Ministry and serving on the Usher Ministry for over 30 years. Her smile and robust laughter always provided comfort to those in her presence, and her ability to focus on the task at hand always made her a first choice if you truly wanted to get something accomplished.As you return to our lord dear mother, your legacy will continue to shape the lives of those who were fortunate enough to know you. Rest easy in the kingdom of our lord and Savior, as your work here is done and heaven has gained an angel. Know you are loved deeply and that you will be missed. But also know, because of your blessed time on this earth and all you were able to do, we celebrate you and will forever be connected as we hold you close to our hearts and in our spirits.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.