Ernie Jennings

Ernest Lee Jennings, “Ernie”, born August 13, 1941, age 82, of Knoxville, passed away at his home the morning of February 5, 2024. Ernie was a member of Ball Camp Baptist Church. He retired from ALCOA aluminum company with a wonderful 35 year career. He was a 1959 graduate of Fulton High School. Shortly after high school, Ernie met and married the love of his life, Geraldine. While being married to Geraldine for 63 years he demonstrated the love and sacrifice that it took to build his most prized possession, which was his family. His love and strength came from his relationship with Jesus, his Lord and Savior. Through this relationship, he learned the definition of family. He lived every day for them; always put them ahead of himself.   

Ernie was also an avid outdoorsman.  He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his family and dear friends. Being present for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren’s games and activities were so very important to him. He made certain they knew he was always there for them.

Ernie, as a husband, a father, a papaw and a friend, will be missed, but his love will continue to live inside each and everyone’s life he poured into. Ernie encompassed the meaning of family. 

He is survived by his wife Geraldine, sons Jeff (Emily) and Jerry (Kelly), daughter Robin (Jon); sisters-in-law Gayle and Brenda, brothers-in-law Steve and Jerry; grandchildren Adam (Kendra), Ryan (Sarah), Josh (Cindy), Taylor (Jacob), Riley, and Sarah; great-grandchildren Hunter, Ava, Hayden, Hudson, and Sawyer. 

Receiving of friends will take place at Ball Camp Baptist Church, February 8th from 5pm to 7pm with a memorial service to follow. Pastor Lee Fox will be officiating. In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be made to the Ball Camp Baptist Church cemetery fund.