Born on 28 Aug, 1931, in Raymond, MS, Ernest was the son of Vernon Ellis McNair, Sr. and Ida Broadwater McNair. Ernest had one sister and four brothers. He attended Hinds Junior College for two years, and married Tillie Emily Willborn on 5 June, 1955. They were the proud parents of two sons, Gene and Carl, and daughter, Jessica.
Ernest spent over 20 years in the US Air Force. He enlisted in 1952 and began his military career as an aircraft mechanic, later becoming an air refueling specialist (boom operator) on KC-97 tankers. He graduated from Officer Candidate School in December 1961, initially becoming a navigator and later serving as an intelligence officer. His final military posting was at the Pentagon, where he retired as a Major in 1972. Later that same year, he started the AFJROTC program at Airline High School in Bossier City, LA. Ernest retired from teaching in 1976.
There are many words which can be used to describe Ernest; honest, loyal, devoted, and often stubborn, but none of them reflect the profound love he had for his wife and their children. Ernest spent most of his life providing for his family, and setting an example of how to live honorably. Only one word accurately describes a man who devotes his life to his family -- Dad.
Ernest is survived by his brother, Carlos McNair, son Gene McNair, daughter Jessica McNair, grandchildren David McNair, Christopher McNair, Catherine McNair, Rachel McNair, Emily McNair, and Kimberly McNair. Ernest was preceded in death by his wife Tillie in 2020, his son Carl (KB5WMY) in 2019; brothers, Vernon McNair, Jr. , Lawrence McNair, and James McNair; and sister, Mable McNair Price.
The family would like to give special thanks to Cammie Emory, who made Ernest home-cooked meals and provided compassion and care for many years. Thanks also to the doctors and staff at Willis-Knighton and Pilgrim Manor, who provided Ernest with the best possible care.
Services will be held at Hill Crest Memorial Park, 601 HWY 80 East in Haughton at 2:00pm on Friday, January 3, 2025. Visitation will take place prior to services from 1:00pm until 2:00pm. Interment will immediately follow services at Hill Crest Memorial Park.
