Fredrick Lee Ernest

Born August 20, 1927, in Linden, Alabama, Fred was the son of the late Ev Vernon Ernest and Wille Mae Swanner Ernest. He grew up alongside his five siblings, where he developed a lifelong love of farming, hunting, and fishing.

After proudly serving in the United States Army as a messenger and marksman during World War II, Fred relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina, where he earned a degree in Electrical Systems from Central Piedmont Community College. He went on to build a distinguished 40-year career in the electrical trade, working with A&P Bakery, Duckworth, Industrial Electric, and Electrical Contracting and Engineering. Throughout his career, he contributed to the electrical installation of several of Charlotte’s most notable landmarks, including the Bank of America Corporate Center, SouthPark Mall, and Presbyterian Hospital. He was also a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) for 75 years.

Fred found great joy in the outdoors, whether hunting, fishing, or simply watching deer, turkeys, and birds. His beautiful gardens provided food and happiness for many, and he was especially known for growing the best tomatoes in town. Fred was never judgmental, always patient, and possessed a quiet strength that made others feel safe and comforted.

Fred loved his family deeply, especially his beloved wife of 57 years, Patricia, his son David, and his daughter Mary. He took great pride in their accomplishments and delighted in sharing stories of their lives and adventures. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him immeasurable joy, and they cherished every moment spent with their “Papa.” He taught them to appreciate nature, care for a garden, and enjoy the peaceful comfort of walking through the woods.

He is survived by his daughter, Mary Ernest Calvert of White Oak, SC; granddaughters Amanda Parker (Matthew) of Atlanta, GA; Katherine Galligan (Ryan) of Chapel Hill, NC; MacKenzie Cassetta (Bryan) of Burlington, NC; Elizabeth Ernest of Tampa, FL; sister Emily Ernest Smith (Gaines) of Thomasville, AL; brother William Ernest (Dean) of Sweetwater, AL; and the ones who kept him young at heart: great-grandchildren, Ava, Bailey, Tyler, Collins, Hannah, and Brooklynn.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia, and son David.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, February 14th, 2026, at Sharon Presbyterian Church in Charlotte with a burial in the church cemetery. There will be a reception in the church fellowship hall following the burial.

In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting the Cemetery Fund at Sharon Presbyterian Church (www.onrealm.org/SharonPresbyter/-/form/give/now).

Online condolences may be shared at www.McEwenPinevilleChapel.com