Ernest Ray Basinger a.k.a. “Ernie B.” left this world on Tuesday, August 3rd 2021, to meet his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ face to face. He was born on August 18,1938 in Rockwell, NC in Rowan County. Ernest was preceded in death by his father James Ernest Basinger, his mother Ether Shuping Basinger, and his younger brother Clarence Alexander Basinger. Ernest is survived by his loving wife Cherryanna Shive Basinger, his daughters Melina Basinger Ethredge and Anissa Basinger LaPorte, and their husbands Brian Ethredge and Dustin LaPorte, and grandchildren Daniel Ethredge, Emma Ethredge, and Anna LaPorte.
A Celebration of Ernest's Life will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, August 14, 2021 at Living Water Baptist Church - 1569 Hwy SC-9, Longs, SC 29568. Memorials may be made to The Gideons International - PO Box 1448, Little River, SC 29566.
Ernest was a member of North Strand Community Church. He loved studying the Bible, creating and teaching Bible studies, Ministry, raising over 100 Bluebirds, feeding and watching birds. In his younger days, Ernie played the bass guitar in a local band. He loved listening to music, including bluegrass, The Gaithers, and Alan Jackson.
Although this is a time of sadness because Ernest will be dearly missed by family and friends, Ernest encouraged us to rejoice because of our hope in Christ Jesus; he had fulfilled his purpose and was "ready to go home".
Ernest’s life was one well lived; He was chosen to take on larger roles and leadership positions starting from the time he was 14 years old until his last days. We could focus on those things, but he would prefer us to focus on God’s purpose which was:
To Know God,
To Love God,
To Serve God, and
To Live With God Forever !!!
Without a doubt, Ernest lived these ideals. At a young age, his mother instilled the love of God and God’s Word in Ernie. He shared that love and scripture with all he met. In his last days, he shared again with his children and grandchildren, even though he was very weak. He hadn't spoken much all day, but when all had arrived, he was filled with the Spirit, pushed through the pain, not wanting to lose a chance to tell them again of God’s love and His plan for them.
Ernie lived his life with purpose and intention, as a runner, running for the prize. He loved his wife and his family and his many friends. He reached out, along with Cherryanna, to those who were hurting, lonely, hungry, imprisoned, and lost. Ernie, through the Spirit and the Word of God, helped change lives by introducing them to Christ or helping them to grow in Christ. He had a great understanding and knowledge of Scripture, with a God given ability to teach and listen with humbleness and kindness.
Ernie's passion was obvious to anyone who spent more than 10 minutes with him. Even though a large void is being felt by his family and friends, Ernie passed knowing that the light that shined within him continues to shine within those who know the Lord. Ernie left a grand legacy of eternal significance that will continue to be multiplied through his family, friends, Church, Men's Bible Study Group, Prison Ministry, and the Gideons.
God Loves Ernest and So Do We !!!
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