Ernestine Towns

Ernestine Towns, 96, formerly of Little Rock, made her transition on July 26, 2014 in Olathe, Kansas. Mrs. Towns was the former owner of Velvatex College of Beauty Culture located in Little Rock on Martin Luther King Drive. The business was started by her mother in 1929, and at the time was the only school for people of color to train in hair styling and cosmetology. In 1942, Mrs. Towns joined her mother, and in 1954 became the owner when her mother retired. She was very community oriented, and served as a consultant for the Urban League, Philander Smith College, and several high schools. Her many affiliations included The Florence Crittenton Home, YWCA, Little Rock City Beautiful Commission, American Association of Estheticians, and numerous other organizations. Left to cherish her memory are son, Ronald (Teresita) Ferguson; granddaughter, Ashley Ferguson, other relatives, and numerous friends. The Funeral Mass will be held Friday, August 1, 2014, 11 a.m. at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church, 1622 Marshall in Little Rock. Interment will follow at Haven of Rest Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, July 31, 2014, 1-6 p.m. at Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 Chester Street, Little Rock. (501) 372-1305.