Ernestina Elizabeth (Chitwood) Stamper

She is lovingly remembered by her granddaughters, Delona Cook (Jamall Cook) of Dayton, Ohio, Jessica “Lizzie” Elizabeth Carpenter (Casey Carpenter) of Mt. Sterling, Kentucky, and Machell Carberry (Shane Carberry); her cherished great-grandchildren, Tyler, Kylie, Alexis, Aliyah, Landon, Mason, Atom, Bravely, and Koleston; and her great-great-grandsons, Cason and Eros. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends, with special mention to nephews Doug Chitwood and John Autry, and niece Georgia Bell.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Georgia (Litton) Chitwood; her brothers, Henry Clay Chitwood, Richard Chitwood, and an infant brother; her sisters, Bernette Bell and Virginia “Jenny” Autry; her son, Clifford Bruce “Bud” Marler; her daughter, Saundra Dowell (Marler); and her granddaughter, Virginia “Jenny” Lee Kinnamon.

Ernestina, lovingly known as “Tina,” was born on July 23, 1926, in Paint Cliff, Kentucky, and was raised in Oneida, Tennessee. She later made her home in both Kentucky and Ohio.

Tina was the heart of her family—a woman who helped raise several nieces and nephews, as well as two of her granddaughters. She was more than a grandmother; she was a second mother, a steady presence, and a source of unconditional love to all who knew her.

A woman of remarkable strength and determination, Tina achieved a lifelong dream by earning her high school diploma at the age of 70, alongside her brother Richard. Despite humble beginnings and limited opportunities, she built a life defined by resilience and perseverance. She retired from General Motors and went on to start and run several successful businesses, including a beloved carry-out where she made homemade pizzas from a small shed beside her home, as well as a bar and grill.

Above all, Tina loved the Lord. She sought Him daily, and her life was rooted in faith and prayer. Through every hardship and every triumph, her trust in God remained unwavering.

Tina overcame every obstacle placed before her with grace and grit. Her life was a testament to faith, hard work, and unwavering love. She was a light to all who knew her—an inspiration whose legacy will live on through the many lives she touched.

Burial will be held on April 29, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Chitwood Cemetery in Winfield, Tennessee.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton.

West-Murley Funeral Home is serving the family of Ernestina Elizabeth Stamper.

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