Earnestine Wallace

Earnestine Wallace, affectionately known as, “Ernie”, transitioned on March 10, 2026, at her home in Kansas City, Missouri, just five days shy of her 84th birthday. She was born on March 15, 1942, in Natchitoches, Louisiana to Earnest Strong and Gracie (Thrash) Strong.

Ernie grew up and received her former education in Natchitoches, Louisiana. After high school, she continued her education at Grambling State University in Grambling, Louisiana. She was two classes short of earning her bachelor’s degree when she left college. 

Ernie married Toney Lee Wallace Sr. in Houston, Texas. They were married for almost 20 years. To this union, one precious son was born, Toney Lee Wallace Jr. 

In 1962 Ernie began her career at Hallmark Cards Inc., in Kansas City, Missouri. She worked several positions during her tenure in manufacturing, dispatch and security. She was very disciplined and showed great dedication to every assignment that was placed before her. On life’s journey, she worked part-time for Montgomery Ward, Dillard’s and seasonal employment with H&R Block preparing income tax returns. Those additional employment opportunities supplemented her income to provide more financial impact for her son’s education.

It was quite evident that Ernie was a “people person”. She had many long-lasting friendships and remained in touch with quite a few high school classmates, attending several class reunions. She maintained enduring friendships with several other “Hallmarkers” that lasted until her passing. Ernie also had a special passion for helping others. She took people to doctor’s appointments and to pick up their prescriptions. She was a care giver for several friends in declining health when their family's needed assistance. Ernie took care of her mother, while striving to maintain a healthy marriage, her professional career, and raising her son.

She was a loving daughter, sweet sister, supportive wife, wonderful mother, and a loyal friend. 

Ernie was proceeded in death by her parents and older sister, Frances McClinton.

Left to cherish Ernie’s memory is her only beloved son, Toney Lee Wallace Jr. of Kansas City, Missouri; her cousins, great nephews and their families, and a host of other loving family and dear friends.