Ernestine (Tuff) Duhart

UTICA - Ernestine (Tuff) Duhart passed away after a long illness on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at the age 83, with her daughter and granddaughter by her side. Ernestine was born on September 9, 1939 in Tifton, GA, a daughter of the late of Ernest “Buddy” and Rosa Lee (Harris) Tuff. At a young age Ernestine relocated to Florida where she lived for a few years and later moved to Utica, NY to be closer to other family members and for better job and career opportunities. She later married Otis Duhart, and together, they started a business and lived in harmony until his death. After completing her high school education, Ernestine decided to invest in real estate. She purchased a two-family home and later what is now known today as a bar and grill. She became somewhat of an entrepreneur and worked both the front and back ends of the iconic bar and grill, named the “Hole in the Wall” located then on South St., which she later passed on to her sister and brother-in-law as she decided to move onto other interests. She also worked as a cosmetologist and was an amazing hair stylist. She later decided to get her nurse’s aide training and certificate and worked in nursing homes and other healthcare facilities. She loved taking care of others and did well at it. She worked in a variety of jobs over the years before her illness, and later retired. She along with her older sister, Ethel loved to cook and was a great baker, she especially loved to bake her delicious cakes. She also could effortlessly whip up sautéed shrimp, rutabaga, collard greens, and fried chicken. Her breakfast dishes were always homey, comfort food. Ernestine had a reputation for being a woman of courage, even in her long suffering and numerous health issues, she never gave up. She was spontaneous and enjoyed being with family, this gave her strength and the will to push forward every day. She knew and loved the Lord as her personal savior. She will be greatly missed, but never forgotten and remembered as an empathetic and loving person by all who knew her. Tragically, Ernestine lost her only biological child, Anthony Tuff. Having Ashley and Janiyah in her life was so energizing and gave her the joy of being a mother again. But she continued to mourn the loss of her son until the end. She also left a piece of her heart on earth with those who would see life continue. Ernestine’s incredible heart and love for children and her family was of the utmost importance to her. She leaves behind to mourn her memory, her daughter, Ashley Green; and granddaughter, Janiyah Alexis Liggins; sisters and brothers, Bobbie J. Tuff, Willie Ruth Tuff Putmon, Marshall Tuff, Sammy Tuff, Marilyn Tuff, and Gregory Tuff. She was also a surrogate mother to Sammy “Pookie” Davis; and a grandmother to Jared L. Tuff. She leaves to cherish her memory a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, as well as other family members, godchild Charice, and friends~ all who she greatly regarded, loved, and held close to her heart; a host of special friends, especially Olean Lang. She also helped Brenda Tippins to raise her children, and cared for Sylvester Russell, both who she regarded as her sister and brother. She was preceded by her sisters, Cynthia Tuff, Carolyn Tuff, Queenie Elizabeth Tuff, Catherine Gillins, and Ethel Dexter; brothers, Leroy Tuff, and Charles Tuff; and her grandmother, Maggie Holmes. During Ernestine’s latter life she was blessed with a wonderful caretaker, Aldia. She was also fortunate to have the dedicated care of her physicians and the staff of the Hobart Clinic, who were exceptional in watching over her medical care and needs. Visitation will be held on Friday, June 2, 2023 from 11:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Ernestine’s Celebration of Life will commence at 12:00 p.m. upon the conclusion of visitation. For those unable to attend, you may be present virtually at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83664445795 beginning at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow in Forest Hill Cemetery.

Ernestine (Tuff) Duhart

September 9, 1939 - May 9, 2023