Earlene Ruth Gaines

Earlene Ruth Gaines, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, left this world on June 11, 2025, in Gore, Oklahoma. Born on April 26, 1938, in San Antonio, Texas, Earlene lived a life that was deeply rooted in family, compassion, and service to others. She dedicated 24 years of her life as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in South Texas, where her nurturing spirit touched the lives of countless individuals and families.

A delightful people person, Earlene was known for her warmth and independence. She possessed a unique ability to connect with everyone she met, making each person feel valued and appreciated. Her family remained her proudest accomplishment; she cherished each moment spent with them, offering love, guidance, and unwavering support.

Earlene's vibrant personality shone brightly through her many interests. She had a profound love for nature and spent countless hours tending to her garden, where blossoms mirrored the beauty of her soul. Her fondness for the "Perry Mason" television show was well-known, as was her adventurous spirit that led her to travel and explore the world around her. Earlene was also a devoted member of Landmark Missionary Church in Vian, Oklahoma, where her faith played a central role in her life.

She is survived by her loving brother, Wallace Love of Texas; her daughters, Jennie Clopton from Gore, Oklahoma, Debbie Carlson from Kingsville, Texas, Sherry Zapata and her husband Rob from Kingsville, Texas, and Linda Edlin from Gonzales, Texas; and her sons, Austin Priest and his wife Kaitlyn from Gore, Oklahoma, George Gaines from Texas and Charlie Gaines from Kingsville, Texas. Earlene also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Shianne Taylor, Brandi Wilbourn, Bo Polhemus, Jordan Polhemus, Kristian Villarreal, Katie Bauer, Brandon Gaines, Amber McCabe, Kelvin Gaines, Vannah Gaines, Kristina, Kelsey Gaines, Marceline Gaines, Gavin Gaines, Jennifer Gaines, Megan Gaines, Shelby Gaines, Gina Gaines and Amanda Stan. She adored her grandchildren, and they will carry her legacy forward. Additionally, she was blessed with great-grandchildren, including Bently Priest, Bryson Priest, Paisley Priest, Lillie Love, Arliss Love, Devon Gaines, Camila Gaines, Brooklyn Polhemus, Aubrey Polhemus, Ethan Polhemus, Easton Polhemus, Emerie Polhemus, Everlie Polhemus, JW Bauer, Brayden Decamp, Caitlin Greif, Devon Gaines, Amber McCabe, Kelvin Gaines, Vannah Gaines, Kelsey Gaines, Marceline Gaines, and Gavin Gaines  —all of whom brought joy to her life.

Earlene is preceded in death by her husband, Eugene Gaines; her sister, Mary Burnett; and her sons, George Gaines and John Gaines. Her granddaughter, Debra Taylor, also departed this earth before her, leaving a deep void in the hearts of those who loved them.

Earlene Ruth Gaines’ life was one of love, service, and dedication. While we grieve her passing, we find comfort in the beautiful memories she leaves behind, a testament to a life well-lived. She will be missed dearly, yet her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of her loved ones.