Zenobia Earls

September 13, 1942 - November 3, 2025

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memorial

Mt. Zion Congregational Church

10723 Magnolia Drive

Cleveland, Ohio 44106

Friday 11/14, 11:00 am

The wake will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by the memorial service at noon.

ZENOBIA NEZABETH GREGORY EARLS

SEPTEMBER 13, 1942 – NOVEMBER 3, 2025

Zee was born to the late William Tency Gregory, Sr. and Sarah Wilson Gregory on September 13, 1942 in Norfolk, Virginia. She attended public schools in Norfolk and graduated from Booker T. Washington High School. She entered Norfolk State University (then Norfolk State College) in 1960 where she met Julian Earls. Julian became her college sweetheart and they were married on June 3, 1962 at the end of their sophomore year. From that marriage they had two beloved sons, Julian, Jr. and Gregory.

Zee earned her B.S. Degree in Education from Norfolk State in January 1965. Also she earned her M.S. Degree in Education from John Carroll University in Cleveland, Ohio in 1978. She enjoyed a 31 year teaching career in the Cleveland Public School System retiring in 1998. She taught as a reading specialist in several elementary schools. Soon she was promoted to a supervisory reading specialist with several schools under her supervision. Zee was a dedicated teacher who missed contact with students, Therefore, she resigned her supervisory position and returned to being a classroom teacher. In that role she earned recognition and was honored as a Jennings Foundation Scholar. In retirement she volunteered as a reading tutor in the Warrensville Heights School System.

Zee was one classy lady, full of energy and was known for her St. John Knits. She was a proud Diamond Life member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. In addition she was a member of, the Chums, the Carats, the Five Special, and the Birthday Club. However, she took great delight as Founder and Queen Mother of a Cleveland chapter the Red Hat Society. The chapter is known as The Sassy Red Hatters.

Zee was a strong woman who met the challenge of dialysis with strength and determination to the very end. After Zee was designated for dialysis, she discovered a talent that was most impressive…that of an artist. While her left arm was immobilized during dialysis sessions, Zee started painting with her right hand. And what an artist she turned out to be. Her paintings were so impressive that the Centers for Dialysis Care (CDC) featured an article about Zee in their 2022 Report to the Community. The CDC produces calendars each year and traditionally includes a photo painting from an artist each month. For the first time two paintings from the same artist, Zee, were included in the 2023 calendar. Another was in the 2024 calendar. For the 2025 calendar, Zee’s paintings were used for the cover of the calendar and the month of February as well. Her paintings were included in an exhibit at the Beachwood Public Library in September 2023. And Zee’s Church, Mt. Zion Congregational Church UCC sponsored a week-long exhibit solely featuring Zee’s paintings in November 2023. And her painting of a snow man was used for the Christmas card mailed statewide by CDC.

Zee was a member in good standing at Mt. Zion Congregational Church, UCC under the leadership of teacher, preacher, Pastor Paul Hobson Sadler, Sr. Her current membership is her second at Mt. Zion. During her first membership she was a member of the Deacon Board. Zee’s faith was exhibited in her Christian life and service to others.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Sarah Gregory, her brother William Tency Gregory, Jr. of Dumfries, Virginia, her brother Oliver Boone of Norfolk, Virginia and her sister, Barbara Burke, of Norfolk, Virginia.

She leaves to cherish her memories her loving husband of over 62 years: Dr. Julian M. Earls, Sr.; son, Dr. Julian M. Earls, Jr. (Dr. Pamela) of Macon, Georgia; son, Gregory Nathaniel Earls (Stephania) of Inglewood, California; granddaughters Madisyn and Mariah Earls of Macon, Georgia; brothers-in-law; Rev. Dr. Robert L. Earls (Karen) of Portsmouth, Virginia, Rev. Dr. James R. Earls of Portsmouth, Virginia;Raymond M. Earls (Linda) of Lithonia, Georgia;and a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to:

Zenobia Earls Scholarship Fund

Mt. Zion Congregational Church UCC

10723 Magnolia Drive

Cleveland. OH 44106

Calhoun Funeral Home & Cremation Service

Stephanie Brown-Houston

Pebbles law

Costella Williams

Marion Norris

Sashelle Alexander

Dr. Mary McWilliams

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Mt. Zion Congregational Church

10723 Magnolia Drive

Cleveland, Ohio 44106

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Friday 11/14, 11:00 am

The wake will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by the memorial service at noon.

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ZENOBIA NEZABETH GREGORY EARLS SEPTEMBER 13, 1942 – NOVEMBER 3, 2025 Zee was born to the late William Tency Gregory, Sr. and Sarah Wilson Gregory on September 13, 1942 in Norfolk, Virginia. She attended public schools in Norfolk and graduated from Booker T. Washington High School. She entered Norfolk State University (then Norfolk StateContinue Reading

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I am so sorry for your loss Dr. Earls. It was a pleasure and an honor getting to know Ms. Earls and you. Please accept my condolences.

I miss and Love you, Mom.

A Heartfelt Message from the Sisters of the Cleveland Chapter of CARATS, Inc. To the Family of Zenobia Earls, Expressing Sympathy and Honoring Our Sister The Sisters of the Cleveland Chapter of CARATS, Inc. stand together today to offer our deepest sympathy and to pay tribute to our beloved sister and your cherished family member, CARAT Zenobia Earls. A Legacy That Endures Although Carat Zenobia has departed from us physically, her spirit remains ever-present through the remarkable legacy she has left behind. For all that she exemplified, we extend our heartfelt gratitude, utmost respect, and sincere admiration. Dedicated Service to CARATS, Inc. For 34 years, Carat Zenobia served and supported CARATS, Inc. with unwavering dignity and dedication. She held numerous roles within the organization, making significant contributions throughout her tenure. The Essence of a CARAT Carat Zenobia embodied the true spirit of a CARAT—her love for her family was boundless, her devotion to community service was exceptional, and her loyalty as a friend was steadfast. She was a remarkable individual whose life profoundly touched many. Her distinguished teaching career earned her recognition and honor as a Jennings Foundation Scholar. Even in retirement, she continued her commitment to service as a volunteer reading tutor, never allowing her devotion to rest. A Woman of Faith and Resilience Carat Zenobia was a God-fearing woman Throughout her courageous battle with illness, she refused to be defined by her circumstances. Instead, she rose above them through her faith in God, demonstrating extraordinary strength, resilience, and the gift of deep connection with others. Remembering “Z” Affectionately known as “Z,” Carat Zenobia will be remembered for her warm smile, generous heart, and unwavering spirit of love, life, and compassion. She cherished every moment, displayed immense tenacity, and lived each day fully in service and love for others. Comfort and Support for the Family & A Loving Farewell To you, the family: May the joy you shared and the memories you created bring you comfort in the years ahead. We share in your sorrow and honor her memory, assuring you that the CARATS are here for you and will keep you in our prayers. To our sister, CARAT Zenobia: We love you, and we hold faith that we will meet again.

Dear Dr. Earls, I was so sorry to see on Facebook that Mrs. Earls had passed away. My condolences to you, Julian, Jr.,, Gregory and their families in the loss of their dear Mother. May she rest in Eternal Peace. Sincerely Jen Cyrill

Sincerest condolences to you, Julian. May the memories of your life together with your lovely Zenobia comfort you during this difficult time. God bless you and your family. Deb and Gene Malow

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

My condolences to you and your family Julian. I am recovering from surgery otherwise I would have been there. Be blessed and comforted by the Holy Spirit!!

Julian and family, my deepest condolence, love and prayers go out to you. I will always have fond memories of Zee's radiant smile as well as her very tasty Yakamein which we all enjoyed.

We send our deepest condolences from Michigan we love you auntie Zee!

May the Lord provide comfort to the family during this difficult time. She made a positive impact in the lives of everyone she met and will truly be missed.

Our sincere prayers and condolences to the family. May God surround you in His tender loving care. Junius and Costella Williams Portsmouth, VA

Our sincere condolences and prayers go out to Dr. Julian Earls, his family, our friends, Pastor Robert and Karen Earl on your loss of your beloved one. In times like these, we need an anchor. God is with you.

Dr. Earl’s you have my deepest condolences, may the Lord comfort you and your family during this time. Former NASA employee .

Our prayers are with you during this time!

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Earls' family as we join you in mourning the passing of your beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and our aunt. Aunt Zee will always be remembered for her kindness, strength, and the love she so freely shared with everyone around her. May her legacy of compassion and faith continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched. Our prayers and love are with the entire family during this difficult time. May you find peace in cherished memories. With deepest sympathy and love, Hunter and Law Family (Detroit, Michigan)

I called her Lady Z, she was an amazing person. If you haven’t seen a love that has no bounds; you’ve missed a it. Dr Earls, my deepest sympathies for the loss of your wife, girlfriend, best friend and the smile in your eyes. May God continue to comfort you and your family.
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Zee was a true sweetheart and someone that I've known for almost six decades. I will miss her, and my heart goes out to the entire Earls family. 🙏 J. Shinn

Prayers to the Earls family. Will always remember Zee as one of the sweetest person I have ever known

"Uncle" Julian and family, I am saddened by the passing of my "Aunt" Zee, my soror, and dear friend of my beloved late mother, Gerrye. I will forever cherish the wonderful memories I have of her. I know that my mom was a member of her welcoming committee in Glory. Praying that God comforts you and gives you peace during this time of bereavement.

We are indeed pleased to share this message for Dr. Julian Earls and his family. We have been friends, church members, ⛳️ golfing partners and divine nine/Delta, AKA and Kappa members for many years.. Our sons grew up and played together at a young age. We were truly blessed to share great times together at small dinners black tie dinner dances and more Zee and I especially enjoyed celebrating our joint birthday times together, in that we're both born on September 13th. 1941 for me and 1942 for Zee. We are true Virgos. Lastly, I am pleased and honored to be a member of the Sassy Red Hatters Club and to have had Zee as our President. May God continue to guide, direct and strengthen you and your family. With Love ❤️ and Prayer, Deacon Leroy and Sister Vivian Melton

Dear Dr. Earls, I am very sorry to learn about the passing of your wife, Zenobia. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Following is my prayer for you and your family: Numbers 6: 24, 25, 26: May the Lord Bless thee and keep thee, May the Lord make his face shine upon thee and be gracious unto thee, May the Lord lift up His countenance upon thee and give thee peace. Amen. Know that you and your family are surrounded in prayer and love 🙏🙏 ❤️❤️, Charlene

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Prayers for the family in your time of sorrow.

I offer my sincere condolences and prayers to Dr. Julian Earls and family on the passing of Zenobia Earls. She was a very kind and delightful person to be around and talk to on occasions. R.I.H. ZEE SAMUEL GOSS AND FAMILY

My deepest condolences and sympathies to Julian and his family. Words cannot express the profound loss that this community has experienced in her passing. Julian may you and your sons know that many near and far will continue lifting up prayers for your comfort in this season of grief and loss. Again, my condolences and sympathies.

My condolences to the family. I had the distinct pleasure of interacting with Mrs.Z.-a Diamond in the sky. She always exuded excellent, love and kindness. She left a mark on my heart. Sweet dreams Mrs. Z.

In memory of Zenobia Earls, Sashelle Alexander lit a candle

To the family of Mrs. Zenobia Earls, Your family has been an indelible part of my life since I was 18 through Dr. Earls' tutelage while at NASA to this very present moment. I will always remember Mrs. Earls opening her house to all the summer students for a Saturday get together. All were welcome and were made to feel welcome. Dr. Earls was able to do all the things for us because of his wife's support and unselfishness. I am one of the ones who came back to say thank you. In our humanness we yet submit to the Heavenly Father even in this. I am eternally grateful to this family and their outpouring of love and support to me over these 40 plus years as a technical professional. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.

My prayers are with Julian and family at this time of loss. Zenobria was a very special person who cared deeply about her family, friends and students. She truly valued learning and education and took her life’s mission seriously. Strong and courageous, she set an example for all about her love of life.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.