Earthlee Oquendo

Earthlee Oquendo was born in Parkers Ferry, SC on March 16, 1920 to the late Cornel and Sarah Maggie Washington. She was called home on Tuesday November 5,2024 to be with the Lord. Earthlee grow up in Parkers Ferry, S C. As a young girl she helped her mother at home and in the fields. Her mother taught her how to sew. She learned to make quilts out of old clothing. Earthlee grow up in Parkers Ferry, S C. As a young girl she helped her mother at home and in the fields. Her mother taught her how to sew. She learned to make quilts out of old clothing. This talent that was passed down to Earthlee allowed her to create beautiful handmade quilts from fabrics and keep sake clothing. She was a great cook and famous for her sweet potato pies accompanied by her homemade pie crust. Earthiee was a strong loving person, very neat, organized and managed money very well. Earthlee love to travel and she enjoyed cruises. Earthlee married Theodore Drayton from Adams Run, SC and from that union they were blessed with one daughter. Earthlee widowed and married Cyril Russell from Manhattan, NY and from that union they were blessed with four children. She later joined Rush Temple A.M.E. Church, Queens, NY and became an active member and president of the Usher board. She graduated from a Ministry School in Brooklyn, NY. Earthlee widowed and relocated to Parkers Ferry, SC. She married Israel Oquendo. She joined New Mount Zion A.M.E. Church, Hollywood, SC. She served as a member of the Steward Board and Church Mother. With her sewing skills she made the white coverings for the pulpit and chairs for communion. She was in a Foster Grandparent Program and received a Certificate of Recognition in Hollywood, S.C. She received a certificate that honored her at 102 years of age for her dedication and services rendered to the AME Church from the Edisto District Senior Ministry. Earthlee loved the Lord and Love the Word of God. One of her favorite scriptures was John 14:1-6. Earthlee was preceded in death by her late husband Israel Oquendo; seven sisters; two brothers; daughter, Rosalind Fisher; son, Cyril "Ronnie" Russell, Jr.; grandson, Lamont Russell and great grand- daughter, Naomi Russell. Left to cherish her memories is her daughter, Gloria Deas; two sons, Erwin Russell (Nancy) and Samuel Russell; seven grandchildren: Deborah Krider (Garfield), Corey Russell, (Personna), Tishema Russell, Reese Russell, Gavin Russell, and Alesha Russell; thirty-one great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild; and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

Earthlee Oquendo

March 16, 1920 - November 5, 2024