Florence, MS
Funeral Home
Visitation
12-1 pm, Friday, September 11, 2026, Griffith Memorial Baptist Church, 5275 Terry Road, Jackson, MS.
Service
1 pm, Friday. September 11, 2026, Griffith Memorial Baptist Church.
Obituary
Military Service Tribute, Honors, and Obituary:
Recognizing and Honoring a Fallen Hero, Who Served Within the Mississippi National Guard. “Fallen, Yet Not Forgotten”.
In recognition of our proud American tradition of honorable service which our military men and women have given to their country and our State, we honor a Fallen Hero. Our nation, our state, and the National Guard Association of MS (NGAMS) regard the memorializing of its retired military deceased as an honorable and sacred obligation.
Another great Airman and Fallen Hero has been released from duty, passed from our ranks on August 30, 2026 and has moved on to his heavenly home. Retired Chief Master Sergeant Earl W. Winterstein, of Florence, MS, age 75, who had served within the MSANG within the 172d Airlift Wing, 183rd Flight Operations has departed and gone to a better place with our Lord and Savior.
It takes a special person to serve within the military for their country, giving up their family time, comfort, and safety for their country, ultimately for all Americans to enjoy their freedoms, safety, and way of life. We now applaud you for your service to our country. A special message from General Douglas McArthur remains applicable today for our servicemen that have passed: “Old Soldiers never die; they just fade away”.
Rest in Peace Airman. We applaud your patriotism, sacrifices, and brave efforts in serving our country and your family for their support of your service. We thank you for your service. Without your efforts and your families’ support, our country would not stand so boldly, shine so bright, and live so free.
You now have earned a rest, so go fly with the Angels, go rest high on that mountain; your work on earth is done. Go to heaven a-shoutin’ Love for the Father and the Son.
Another great Airman has gone home, “Fallen, Yet Not Forgotten, Airman for Life”.
Obituary, Visitation, and Service details:
Earl Winterstein, a cherished husband, brother, uncle, mentor and friend, passed away suddenly on September 6, 2026, leaving a legacy of kindness, service, and love. Born on January 3, 1951, in Jackson, Mississippi, to Earl Winterstein, Junior, and Barbara Jean (Spell) Winterstein, Earl’s life was a testament to his unwavering dedication to his family, community, and country.
Earl graduated from Wingfield High School in 1969, where he discovered his passion for art and sports. He furthered his education at Hinds Junior College, where he played on the football team and completed his studies in 1971. Earl went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Education from Mississippi College in 1973 and pursued additional studies in the Art Department at the University of Mississippi.
In 1974, Earl embarked on a teaching career at Pelahatchie Attendance Center, where he shared his love for art and coached football. His commitment to education and mentorship left a lasting impression on countless students. Earl’s dedication to service extended beyond the classroom; in May 1975, he joined the Mississippi Air National Guard, marking the beginning of an illustrious military career.
Earl’s journey in the Air National Guard showcased his extraordinary skills and leadership. As an aircraft Loadmaster, he flew on the C130, C141, and C17, eventually becoming an esteemed instructor and examiner. After 35 years of dedicated service, Earl retired in 2010 as the Chief Master Sergeant of the flying squadron of the 172nd Airlift Wing. His contributions as a military technician employee culminated in his role as the Loadmaster Superintendent at the Air National Guard Base in Flowood.
Away from his professional pursuits, Earl was a man of deep faith and community involvement. He was an active member of Griffith Baptist Church, a longtime participant in the Rankin County Bass Club, and a familiar face at the local VFW. Earl found joy in fishing, watching Ole Miss football, and his beloved corvette. In his retirement, he embraced substitute teaching, cherished meals with friends, and enjoyed leisurely golf cart rides through his neighborhood.
Earl’s kindness and generosity were as boundless as his love for children and his penchant for sharing a well-timed movie quote to brighten any day. His genuine spirit touched everyone he met, leaving an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Earl was predeceased by his parents, his brother Mark Alan Winterstein, and his beloved children, Bradley Earl, Brittany Ann, and Brian Lee Winterstein. He is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Carol Wright Winterstein, his brother Roddy (Jo), and numerous nieces and nephews who will forever hold his memory dear.
A celebration of Earl’s life will be held at Griffith Memorial Baptist Church, 5275 Terry Road, Jackson, Mississippi where family and friends will gather on Friday, September 11, 2026, for visitation from 12-1 and service immediately following to honor the remarkable life he led. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of one’s choice, in honor of Earl’s giving spirit.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to all who have shared in Earl’s journey. “Forever in our hearts. May we all try daily to be as kind as Earl.”