The Life of Ernest Isadore Washington, Jr.
There are only a few people in this world who distinguish themselves and impact our lives in a very special way. ERNEST ISADORE WASHINGTON, JR., was known and loved by all. THE POWERFUL VOICE, THE SONGBIRD, THE STERN, YET HUMBLE GIANT, and above all, the aforementioned attributes that distinguished him, he was most esteemed as a FATHER, GRANDFATHER, BROTHER, UNCLE, COUSIN, CHILD OF GOD, AND FRIEND TO ALL.
In the beginning, Ernest I. Washington, Jr. was born the sixth child from the union of the late Trustee Ernest Isadore Washington, Sr. and the late Maggie M. Roundtree Washington. This great birth occurred on Sunday, November 5, 1950 in Blackville, Barnwell County, South Carolina. Ernest grew up in a large and loving family.
Seeking God’s direction and guidance, at an early age, he confessed Christ as his personal savior. He joined and became a devoted baptized member of the Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Blackville, South Carolina under the leadership of the late Reverend Aaron Andrew Bush, Sr. He served faithfully as a member of the Male Chorus, the Drama Ministry, and the Men’s Ministry. He attended worship service regularly until his health began to decline.
Ernest’s education was provided by teachers and mentors of the Blackville Public School System where he graduated in 1977. After high school, he entered the workforce and began employment with Ducane Heating & Cooling, Blackville, South Carolina, Savannah River Site, Aiken, South Carolina, and lastly Crane Merchandising Systems, Williston, South Carolina from which he retired after many years of service. Bootee also constructed bicycles for Wal-Mart, Inc in Barnwell, South Carolina.
In his leisure time, Ernest enjoyed hunting, fishing, going to auctions, and making his famous homemade wine. Everyone who truly knew Ernest knew his greatest joy was being with his family, no matter how small or large the occasion. We thank God for the life that he lived, and time shared with us. He passed down his outgoing spirit, and faithfulness; and it is with these attributes and many more that will strengthen and encourage us all in the days that lie ahead. Our lives have been truly enriched because of his love, and his infectious spirit. God blessed him with seventy-two (72) years of life. And, he lived it to the Glory of God, the benefit of his family, and as a friend to countless numbers of people. He will be sorely missed.
“Bootee”, as he was affectionately called, traded his early responsibilities and activities for eternal life with his Creator in Heaven on Saturday evening, July 29, 2023 at his residence in Blackville, South Carolina surrounded by his loving family. And now, he rests peacefully from his labors. As he impacted the lives of many and we love him so dearly, it was time that he traveled alone. He is now praising, singing, and dancing with Jesus. He is an eternal member of the Heavenly Choir where his powerful voice rings out as he sings some of his favorite songs: “Falling in Love With Jesus” and “Silent Night”. The voice we loved is still; but the memories, songs, and jokes shall play in our minds and in our hearts forever!!!
In addition to his grandparents, our beloved Ernest I Washington, Jr. was preceded in death and now resting with his wonderful parents: father, Ernest Isadore Washington, Sr. and mother, Maggie R. Washington; (1) beloved daughter, Lisa Shawntae Hicks; (2) brothers: Pernell Washington and Ernell Washington; and (2) sisters: Nancy C. Washington and Shirley A. Washington Reed. Imagine them waiting on him with open arms and a “Welcome Home.”
His unconditional love, amusing wit, and affectionate memories will continue to flourish in the hearts, minds, and lives of: (4) Sons: Eddie Washington (Sonya) of Blackville, South Carolina, Ernest I. Washington, III (Amanda), Anthony Washington and Carlos Washington, all of Blackville, South Carolina; (1) daughter, Doresa Washington of Blackville, South Carolina; (1) stepdaughter, Jacqueline R. Felder (Clarence, Sr.) of Blackville, South Carolina; (29) grandchildren; (13) great grandchildren; (1) brother, Gerald I. Washington (Elizabeth) of Gardenia, California; (5) dedicated sisters: Emma Ruth Washington Davis, Cheryl Lynn Washington Williams, Cynthia D. Washington, and Tania Washington Smalls (Herbert) all of Blackville, South Carolina and Beverly Washington-Gregg (Timothy) of Hephezibah, Georgia; (1) sister-in-law, Ethel M. James Washington of Blackville, South Carolina; (1) brother-in-law, Lonnie L. Reed of Danbury, Connecticut; (3) aunts: Dorothy Washington of Estill, South Carolina, Dorothy Shepherd of Augusta, Georgia, and Gloria Washington of Blackville, South Carolina; (1) Uncle, Deacon Earther Dan Price of Barnwell, South Carolina; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and sorrowing friends who will miss him dearly.
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