Ernest "Ernie" Smith

Ernest “Ernie” Smith, 85, of Bangor, passed away Wednesday, July 27, 2016 at the Golden Orchards Nursing Community in Fennville, Michigan. He was born November 16, 1930 to Henry and Eula (Ragland) Smith in Hebron, Mississippi. Ernie proudly served in the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict. More importantly, Ernie served in the Lord’s Army, dedicating his life to proclaiming the gospel message of Jesus Christ. He attended seminary school at Illinois Missionary Baptist Seminary Institute in Washington, Illinois where he earned his degree. He also began a career at National Motors in 1966.

He is preceded in death along with his parents, Henry and Eula (Ragland) Smith, by previous wives – Rose and Johnnie Smith, brothers – Thurman, W.D., Evert, Hubert sisters – Pauline Parscale and Louise Woodham.

Ernie is survived by his wife – Anna Ruth Smith, children – Lanny (Barbara) of Coloma, Carl (Robin), and Todd (Dina) Smith both of South Haven, Debera (Jim) Nelson of Eureka, Illinois, Shelly (Jack) VanDerBrink of South Haven, Janice (Mike) Williams of Bangor, and Kim (Don) Turnes of Zeeland. Sixteen grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren also survive.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Friday, July 29, 2016 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, July 30, 2016 at the funeral home with Pastors Michael Schmid and Dan Spiecer officiating. Ernie will be laid to rest at Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven. Contributions may be made in Ernie’s memory to the Ladies Auxiliary at Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, 419 Cherry St, South Haven, MI 49090.