Ernest Wagen Wilcox

Ernie lived a full and adventurous life, marked by his deep love for his Lord Jesus Christ, his family, and his friends. He had a passion for anything related to the sea and the sky, from flying to skin diving, and his mechanical interests knew no bounds.

Born in West Palm Beach on July 17, 1933, Ernie was a proud native Floridian. His family moved to Coral Gables before he was old enough for school, and he later attended Coral Gables High. He often shared stories of his freshman year when he helped clear rocks from the new football field. A standout athlete, Ernie received a full football scholarship to the University of Miami, where his coach encouraged the team to join ROTC to avoid the draft during the Korean War. Ernie chose the Air Force ROTC, a decision that led to three years of active-duty service, followed by 17 years in the active reserves, including eight years with the 301st Air Sea Rescue Squadron. Ernie had many colorful stories from his time in the Air Force, most of them rooted in truth.

Ernie’s passion for aviation extended to his career at Pratt & Whitney, where he spent 35 years working with jet engines. He held patents on the SR-71 and several other engines. His love for the field didn’t end with retirement — he went on to work as a consultant for United Technologies, Agilis, Locus, and Edmonds, advising on all types of jet engines for flight and power.

Although he tried retirement, Ernie found it wasn’t for him. He spent at least 15 more years consulting and sharing his expertise. Throughout his life, Ernie found joy in two contrasting passions — flying and skin diving. He flew small planes well into his 80s and built intricate models from Coke cans. His love of the sea was equally strong, and he spent countless hours diving and catching lobster, though he admitted he didn’t much enjoy eating them — he preferred steak.

Ernie was deeply committed to serving the Lord through various ministries. He was involved with Cursillo, where he served as rector, and was a dedicated participant in CFO, a Christian family retreat, including three years as chairman. He taught Sunday school and served in several leadership roles at his local church, but his favorite ministry was Kairos. For over 40 years, he devoted his weekends to ministering to the residents of Okeechobee Correctional Institution, continuing well into his 80s.

In 1962, Ernie went on a blind date at the request of a friend. One year later, he married the woman who would become the love of his life, Bonnie. They celebrated 61 wonderful years together, almost reaching their 62nd anniversary.

At the age of 35, Ernie was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, but he never allowed it to hinder his life. Whether he was in pain or not, he remained active — playing handball, racquetball, running, diving, four-wheeling, snowmobiling, building a cabin, and crafting furniture.

Ernie was preceded in death by his parents, Adrian and Mary Burr Wilcox, and his younger brother, David B. Wilcox.

Ernie is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Bonnie E. Wilcox; his daughter and dive partner, Rebecca W. Perree (Bruno); his talented son, Edward W. Wilcox (Madeline); his five granddaughters, whom he adored and loved to brag about, Patience Wilcox Davern (Eamon), Temperance Wilcox, Serenity Wilcox, Abigail Perree Felce (Stephen) and Victoria Perree; his beloved sister, Freddie-Lu Sanders; as well as many dear nieces and nephews who brought joy and laughter into his life and a wide circle of lifelong friends.

While we deeply mourn Ernie’s passing, we take comfort in knowing that he is with his Lord. We will always cherish his humor, his incredible stories, and his unwavering spirit.

“Rest Easy, Ernie”

A funeral service will be held on Sunday, March 16, 2025 at 3:00 PM at First Presbyterian Church, 717 Prosperity Farms Rd, North Palm Beach, FL 33408. The committal service will occur on Monday, March 24, 2025 at 2:00 PM at South Florida National Cemetery, 6501 FL-7, Wellington, FL 33449.

We love flowers, but Ernie loved Kairos. Please consider making a donation to Kairos Prison Ministries International, designating Okeechobee Correctional Institute as the recipient. There are three ways to give:

1. Kairos Prison Ministries, 100 DeBary Plantation Blvd. DeBary, Fl. 32813

2. By phone: (407) 629-4948

3. Online: MyKairos.Org. There is a place on the site to donate