Earnell Leslie

Earnell Leslie, a beloved matriarch, woman of faith, and devoted caregiver, peacefully transitioned from this life on December 31, 2025, at her home. She was born on December 17, 1928, in Quincy, Florida, to the late Clarence and Letha Betsey.
Earnell married Odell Leslie Sr. and, in 1956, migrated to Hartford, Connecticut, where she built a life grounded in hard work, faith, and love for family. She labored faithfully for many years, first working in a factory and later fulfilling her calling as a daycare provider. From her home, she operated her own daycare business for many years, caring for countless children as if they were her own. Parents trusted her wholeheartedly, knowing their children were safe, nurtured, and loved. She later continued her work in childcare at Mt. Olive Daycare, where she eventually retired.
Earnell gave her life to Christ in 1964 and remained steadfast in her faith throughout her life. She was a faithful member of Tried Stone Church for many years, where she worshipped diligently and ensured her children and grandchildren were raised in the house of the Lord. Later, she joined Abundant Life Tabernacle, where she became affectionately known as "the Mother of the Church." Earnell served God wholeheartedly and unapologetically, never hesitating to let the world know who her King and Savior was.
She had a deep love for cooking and was exceptionally gifted at it. Anyone who knew Earnell could testify that they were fed by her at some point in their life. Her home and table were always open, and her food was seasoned with love.
In addition to her parents, Earnell was preceded in death by her siblings, Haven Betsey, William James Betsey, and Marie Baylor; and her children, Dorothy "Lil Bit" Breedlove, Odell Leslie Jr., and Charles Leslie.
She leaves to cherish her memory her loving children: Melvin Leslie of Hartford, CT; Gloria Leslie of Atlanta, GA; and Rowena Leslie of East Hartford, CT, who cared for her until she took her last breath.
She also leaves her legacy through her 22 grandchildren: William "Billy" Breedlove; Everett Breedlove (preceded in death); Kimberly Breedlove; Lisa Richardson; Shawanda Breedlove; Edwina Rivera; Chevelle Jamison; Lashunda Dickerson; Kevin Leslie; Odell Leslie III; Jarrell Leslie; Antwan Jones; Lucetia "Keisha" Dennis; Semekia Leslie; Constance Earnell Bakare; Shondell Leslie; Tanika Holloman (Joshua); Rosheena Leslie; Devon Leslie; Steven Ross Jr. (Yasmeen); Kejuan Ross; and Roteya Leslie.
Earnell is further survived by 50 great-grandchildren, 45 great-great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great-great-grandchildren, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.
Earnell was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed in the physical, but her legacy, faith, and love will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew her.
"I will bless the Lord at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth."- Psalm 34:1