Ernest McKinley Crutcher, Sr. departed this life on November 18, 2022, at his residence. He was born to the late Charlie and Edith Crutcher on January 29, 1946, in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Ernest was a proud Howard Hustling Tigers student. He had a passion for running track at The Second District School. He was a faithful employee for over 20 plus years at DuPont and 16 years for the City of Chattanooga. His most proud job was being THE mayor of North Chattanooga for over 70 plus years. Ernest had a special love for all things James Brown and was known to imitate all his most famous dance moves. In his spare time, he was found playing the game of dominos and solitaire and would challenge anyone who would dare to compete.
On September 3, 1968, Ernest married the love of his life, Lessie Terella Crutcher. Ernest and Lessie had the most entertaining relationship that created an atmosphere filled with love, food, and laughter. They were known for opening their door to anyone who was in need. Their children saw Ernest as a hard worker, great provider, and present father. Ernest and Lessie’s relationship can be concluded in one statement, “What Lessie said, that’s what went!”
Ernest was preceded in death by, his loving wife, Lessie Terella Crutcher; parents, Charlie and Edith Crutcher, his children, Angela Foster and Troy Duane Crutcher Sr.; siblings, Rosetta Holiday, James Edward Crutcher, Charlie Wilson Crutcher, and Louise Partridge Crutcher.
Ernest leaves his legacy to his family, children, Terry Willingham (Bim), Andre Ray, Ernest M. Crutcher, Jr.(Rene), Solomon Crutcher, Rhonda Muir, Rodney Willingham, Frederick Douglass(Woo); dear daughter-in-law, Yvonne Crutcher; his siblings, Mary Elizabeth Pasley, Charlene Dorris, Geneva Crutcher, Nellie Crutcher, Bobby Crutcher (Barbara), David Crutcher, Philip Crutcher, and Clarence Crutcher; 22 grandchildren, 44 great grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and adopted family; a special/ dear nephew, Charles Crutcher and special friend, Delta Evans (Duck) .
Ernest is already missed dearly by many and will live on in the memories of his loved ones.
Public viewing will be held 2:00 pm-6:00 pm, Monday, November 28, 2022, at John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Avenue, 423-622-9995.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am, Tuesday, November 29, 2022, at Greater Emmanuel Apostolic Church, 400 Tunnel Blvd.
Interment: Chattanooga Memorial Park, 501 Memorial Drive, 37415