Ernestine “Tina” Withers, age 99, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2021, at Indian River Estates in Vero Beach, Florida.
Tina was born on August 9th, 1921 in Wilson, North Carolina and was the daughter of Eunice (Woodard) and Albert Oettinger. She was raised in Wilson and went on to earn a degree in English from Woman’s College of the University of North Carolina (now UNC Greensboro). After meeting the love of her life, Jim Withers, at an Army dance, they married on September 21, 1944 in Grafton, West Virginia. They were happily married for 64 years. Tina was an active member of the Presbyterian Church throughout her life. An avid reader and lifelong learner, she often participated in book clubs and was well informed on current events. Tina was passionate about volunteering and helping others, loved to play bridge, and was a great conversationalist. Tina lived at Indian River Estates for 16 years where she made many friends and enjoyed the activities.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Jim Withers, young son Dana Withers, and brother, Albert Oettinger, Jr. She is survived by her daughter, Susan (Brian) Sheridan of Ishpeming, Michigan; son, Eric Withers of Fort Pierce, Florida; and three granddaughters, Kathleen (the late Kafero) Mwanga of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Amanda Sheridan of Marquette, Michigan, and Leah (Wil) Rankinen of Grand Rapids, Michigan. She is also survived by loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and six great-grandchildren.
Tina’s way of living life was one that many people strive to achieve. Whether she was jumping in the ocean or twirling across the dance floor, she carried an ease and elegant grace about her, with a sweet smile and sparkle in her eye that matched her radiance for life. She loved to share her light-hearted humor and stories with those around her and never missed an opportunity to dress up or host a gathering. She was always able to look on the bright side of situations and encourage those around her. Her Southern charm and hospitality made a lasting impression on anyone who had the pleasure of meeting her. She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.
A celebration of Tina’s life will be held at Indian River Estates, 2250 Indian Creek Blvd, W, Vero Beach, Florida on June 19, 2021 beginning at 10:30 AM.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed in Tina’s memory to the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation at bbrfoundation.org or 747 Third Ave, 33rd Floor, NY, NY 10017.