Ernest Lee Columbus

Mr. Ernest Columbus, 83, of Greenville, NC, passed away on Tuesday, February 20, 2024 in Greenville, NC surrounded by his loving family.

Sergeant First Class Ernest Lee Columbus was born on October 3, 1940, in Pinetown, NC to the late Jessie Columbus and mother, Mary Jean Oden Columbus. He departed this life for eternal and peaceful rest on Tuesday morning, February 20, 2024, at home.

Ernest was raised by his father and mother Corena King Columbus. Those that knew him affectionately called him “Nump or Mr. C. He was educated in the Beaufort County Public School System. He was a member of the Beaufort County Alumni Association (Pitt County Charter).

Ernest was raised in the church at a very young age, and he knew of the Lord and in 2004 he joined Philippi Church of Christ in Greenville, NC.

Ernest married Carolyn Allen in 1965 and were married for over 59 years; she was his high school sweetheart and from their union they had four children.

Ernest was drafted in the United States Army on September 5, 1963. He served four tours in Korea, three- tours in Germany, one tour in Ft. Benning, GA and his home base was Ft. Bragg.

During his time in the military, he received several medals and accommodations which includes, Good Conduct Medals, a Marksman/Sharpshooter “Expert” and a Tactical Communication Chief. Ernest retired from the military on May 1, 1987.

After retirement Ernest went to Pitt Community College, Winterville, NC and got an associate degree in Auto & Diesel Mechanic in 1990 He was employed at Bill Service Center as an auto mechanic until his health began to fail.

He enjoyed working on cars, racket ball, running, bowling, bike riding and playing cards.

In addition to his parents, Ernest was preceded in death by two brothers, Willie Becton and Jasper Columbus, two sisters Sara Jane Boyd and Joan Columbus.

He leaves to cherish his memories, his wife Carolyn Columbus of the home. He also leaves four children: Tammy Columbus, Anthony Columbus (Melvina), Kim Green (Scott) and Tisha Columbus all of Greenville, NC. Four grandchildren: Sean Columbus, Kisherra Green Williams (Justin), Shaniqua Columbus Norris (Jordan), and Diontae Columbus and three great grandchildren: Marlie Columbus, Skylar Columbus and Karri Columbus. His mother, Corena Columbus, Washington, NC, two brothers: Jessie Ray (Cindy) Columbus, Williamston, NC, and Leonard (Patricia) Columbus, Chocowinity, NC; three sisters, Katherine Hamrick, Kannapolis, NC, Lucy (Randy) Cox, Winterville, NC, and Janice (Nat) Banks, Washington, NC; and one sister-in-law, Yvette Norman, Greenville, NC. A host of nieces, nephews, three special friends: David O’Neal & Larry Moore and Milbert Whitley, other relatives and friends.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Heavenly Arms Family Mortuary & Cremation Services, 8482 E. Marlboro Rd. Suite G Farmville, N.C. 27828