Ernest Beecher Wheatley

Ernest Beecher Wheatley, 83 of Kingsport went to be with the Lord and loved ones on Saturday, November 8, 2014 at Holston Manor Nursing Home. He was born in Virginia to the late Harold and Dussie Wheatley. Ernest graduated from Coeburn high school, and proudly served as commissaryman second class, U.S. Navy, during the Korean War. He was also a member of the masonic lodge. Ernest retired from National Life and Accident Insurance Company after many years of service. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Church Hill, TN. Ernest loved to talk about his years of service aboard the U.S.S. Tanner, and enjoyed cooking on the ship. He also loved to fish. He was a precious Daddy, and will be missed very much. He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Joan Porter Wheatley. Survivors include his daughter, Janie Minor and husband Mike; son, Scott Wheatley and wife Mary; three sisters, Maxine Buchanan, Judy Wilson, and Freida Greear; two granddaughters, Mikaela Minor and Leslie Farris; two great-grandchildren, Tori and Gabe Farris; several nieces and nephews. A military graveside service will be held at Powell Valley Memorial Gardens on Wednesday, November 12, 2014 at 10 AM with Bro. Gary Rice officiating, with military honors conducted by Hammond Post #3 and Gate City Post #265. Those who wish to attend are asked to meet at the cemetery by 9:45 am. The family would like to thank the staff of Holston Manor Nursing Home (500 wing) for their compassionate care. Carter-Trent Funeral Home downtown Kingsport is serving the Wheatley family.