Ernest "Buster" Dixon Brite Jr.

Born to Ivy Manning, Ernest was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was a proud U.S. Army Veteran, having served during the Korean War from 1950 to 1953. Ernest was the owner of Brites Clothier in Alliance, NC for 25 years, a business he took great pride in. In addition to his entrepreneurial spirit, Ernest was a longtime member of the Berne Lodge, where he served as treasurer for over 30 years.

A dedicated and faithful member of Temple Baptist Church, Ernest loved his Sunday School class and took great joy in giving out peppermint candy to the children. He was also known for his love of storytelling, his infectious sense of humor, and his ability to make everyone around him laugh. He cherished his weekly golf games with friends and enjoyed playing Dominos every Friday night with his wife and friends. Ernest’s warmth and kindness touched the hearts of everyone who knew him, and he will be dearly missed.

Ernest was preceded in death by his mother, Ivy Manning; his brother, Will Brite; his sister, Myra Weber; and his half-brothers, Johnny and Jimmy Manning, as well as his half-sister, Martha Dunn. He was also preceded in death by his loyal companion, Cookie, who faithfully accompanied him to work every day for 12 years.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Thelma Luckadoo Brite; his children, Cathy Bernhardt and Linda Clark (Aaron); his step-children, Melissa Morales (Juan), Debbie LaFreniere (Leon); as well as five grandchildren, one great-grandchild, five step-grandchildren, and four step-great-grandchildren.

A funeral service to celebrate Ernest's life will be held on Monday, January 27, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Cotten Funeral Home with visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial with Military Honors and Masonic Rites will take place at Greenleaf Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Temple Baptist Church, 1500 Kingdom Way, New Bern, NC 28560.

The family is grateful for the love and support of friends and family during this time.

Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family and friends of Ernest "Buster" Dixon Brite, Jr.