Earl Lester Lumpkin, Sr.

With profound love, deep gratitude, and treasured memories, our family announces the passing of Earl Lester Lumpkin, Sr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend. We invite relatives, friends, church members, and the wider community to join us in honoring his remarkable life and enduring legacy. 

Earl L. Lumpkin Sr. was born on August 15, 1940, in Shellman, Georgia, to Theodis and Millanee Lumpkin. As the fifth eldest of twelve children, he learned the value of hard work at an early age. Growing up, he worked in the fields of Georgia, experiences that helped shape his character and instill within him the discipline and determination that would guide him throughout his life. 

Even as a young man, Earl aspired to make a better way for himself and his family. He attended J.W. Holly High School in Sylvester, Georgia, where he continued his education and discovered his musical talent as a trumpet player. Determined to further his education, he later enrolled at Edward Waters College, now Edward Waters University, in Jacksonville, Florida. 

After completing his education, Earl moved to Miami, Florida, where he began his career with Ryder Truck Rental as a maintenance worker. What began as a humble position soon became the foundation for an extraordinary career. His work ethic and natural sales ability were quickly recognized, leading him to advance to the position of desk clerk and eventually become the first African American Ryder Truck Rental Manager.

While Earl achieved great professional success, his life was also deeply rooted in faith and service to God. He faithfully served as a Deacon and was a devoted member of the then New Way Fellowship Baptist Church, under the leadership of Pastor Reverend Billy Baskin.

Earl was instrumental in the development of the church's new building and served on the Building Committee as Chairman of the Fundraising Committee. Through his leadership, vision, and commitment, he helped support the effort to bring the congregation's vision to life. The new New Way Fellowship Baptist Church became a state-of-the-art church facility, representing the faith, sacrifice, and dedication of those who worked to build a lasting home for ministry.

Earl understood that building God's house meant more than constructing a building. It meant creating a place where generations could gather, worship, grow, and serve. The same leadership, determination,  and ability to inspire others that helped him succeed in his professional life were also used in service to his church and his God.

Earl lived a life anchored in faith, strength, dignity, and unwavering devotion. On September 4, 2026, he entered eternal rest, yet his legacy continues to shine through his family, his friendships, the countlesslives he touched, and the memories we hold close to our hearts.

He instilled in his family the values of hard work, perseverance, and education. A true family man, Earl loved deeply and guided with wisdom, steadiness, and compassion. He was strong in conviction, always ready for a thoughtful debate, yet consistently fair, kind, and grounded.

Earl’s greatest legacy is the life he lived wholly devoted to the Lord God Almighty. Through his actions, his service, and his character, he exemplified Christian values and demonstrated what it means to walk faithfully with God.

Earl was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and grandson, who now welcome him home: Theodis and Millanee Lumpkin, Jimmie Lee, Otis, Mary Alice (Claitt), Arnita (Moss), John Arthur, Velma (Jackson),Willie Frank, and Earl III.

He leaves behind a strong and loving family who will continue to celebrate his life: his spouse, Cora; his children, Acquelyn Williams (Lorenzo (deceased)), Cyprianna Jackson (Anthony, Sr.), Earl II (LaShonda) and Katina Lowery (Tommie), beautifully blended children, Tonya McCoy-Ford (Ervens) and Ronald McCoy, and a special son, nephew Lester Stubbs (Nitza); his siblings Betty Perkins (Ernest (deceased)), Jessie Lumpkin (Joyce), Melvin Lumpkin (Rhonda), Ray Lumpkin (Arnissa); 12 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren and a host of relatives, friends and neighbors.

We invite you to join us in celebrating the life of this extraordinary man. This gathering will be more than a farewell, it will be a sacred moment to reflect on his journey, honor his legacy, thank God for the blessing of his life, and surround the Lumpkin family with prayer, comfort, and love.

• Omega Service: Friday, September 18, 2026
• 7:00 PM Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home
• 4001 Sebring Parkway, Sebring, FL 33870

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2. Celebration of Life: Saturday, September 19, 2026
3. Greater Mt. Zion AME Church 870 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
4. Sebring, FL 33870 Viewing: 9:00 AM • Service: 11:00 AM

As we gather, may we remember not only the sorrow of his passing but also the profound blessing of having known and loved him. May every story shared, every tear shed, every embrace offered, and every prayer lifted remind us that a life well lived leaves a legacy that endures far beyond the final goodbye.

• Arrangements entrusted to:
• Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home
• 4001 Sebring Parkway
• Sebring, Florida 33870
• (863) 385-0125

www.stephensonnelsonfh.com