Ernest Walling DeWitt III, 78, of Saint Simons Island GA passed away Monday, November 4, 2024 at Southeast Georgia Health System, Brunswick.
Ernie, as he was called by his family, friends and coworkers, was born July 14, 1947 in Waycross. He was the son of the late Ernest W. Dewitt II and Annie Margaret Arnold Dewitt. He was one of the greatest gifts to his mother, as he was born on her birthday. He grew up on St. Simons Island and attended St. Simons Island Elementary School. He went on to graduate from Glynn Academy with the class of 1965. He then started what would become his lifetime career in the electrical field.
Growing up on St Simons, he could be found on the pier fishing, crabbing and casting his throw net and also riding bikes with friends. His first job was a paper route for The Brunswick News.
He attended South Georgia Technical College in Americus, for electrician certification.
DeWitt III
He then completed an internship in Savannah, where he became a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). He remained a dedicated “union man” until his death.
As a young electrician, he worked at the Brunswick Paper Mill. When he retired, he was working at Chemtall Inc. in Riceboro.
Not only was Ernie a “union man”, he was also a “Harley man”. At the time of his death, he took great pride in his two bikes, one of which he named Margaret after his mother. In his later years, he became a birdwatcher and could identify every bird that feasted at his bird feeders.
He was a member of the Golden Isles Amateur Radio Club, The Brunswick Gun Club, and a member of the IEBW, Local 508 for 42 years. He also was a member of the St Simons Baptist Church where he had attended since childhood.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Tommy Arnold De-Witt and his sister, Ann Dewitt Crowther.
Survivors include his son, Ernest W DeWitt IV (Margaret Elizabeth) and his adopted son, Eric Hall DeWitt; his beloved dog, LuLu, that brought joy and love into his life; his sister, Mary Lane DeWitt James and nieces, nephews and cousins.
A family graveside service will be held at a later date in Montezuma. He will be laid to rest beside his grandparents, Angus and Ida Claud McKenzie Arnold.
Contributions can be made to the Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia, 4627 US 17, Brunswick, GA 31525 or St Simons First Baptist Church, St. Simons.
Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online register at www.pearsondial. com.
Pearson-Dial Funeral Home of Blackshear was in charge of arrangements.
