Paul F. Ernest

Paul F. Ernest, 87, of Mountain Glen Circle, Morganton, NC went to be with the Lord on Friday, July 1, 2011 at his residence. Born in Washington, DC on May 24, 1924, he was the son of the late George F. Ernest and Martha Reid Ernest. In addition to his parents, Paul was preceded in death by a sister, Anna M. Ernest, and all of his uncles and aunts.

Paul served as a SeaBee in the U.S. Navy during WWII. He later served as a Chaplain from 1953 until 1973. He was a Baptist minister, serving in many churches and mission churches in various locations. Paul was a supporter of home and foreign missions and visited many mission stations. He was a member of Burkemont Baptist Church.Paul completed high school and attended college and seminary. He received his B.A., B.D., M.R.E. and M.D. degrees. He also received a teaching certificate in secondary education in the field of mathematics. He taught for Burke County Public Schools.Paul is survived by his wife and wonderful Christian helpmate, Gladys Wise Ernest of the home; sons, John T. Ernest of Morganton and Mark P. Ernest and wife, Elizabeth, of of Gas City, IN; grandchildren, Seth A. Ernest, Josiah Ernest, and Alyssa Ernest.The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, July 3, 2011 at Burkemont Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. David Mills and Rev. Preston Stainback officiating. Entombment will follow in Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum with military honors provided by the N.C. National Guard. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Burkemont Baptist Church, 4668 Burkemont Road, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.