In loving memory of Ernest Boggan Jr. - Obituary Baldwin Brothers

Obituary

Ernest Boggan Jr, our beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2023, at home surrounded by his loved ones.

Ernest, also lovingly referred to as Ernie, Sonny, Big Bro, Dad, Pops, Dada, Grandpa, and Papa, was born in the cotton fields of Mississippi in 1941. The fifth of twelve children, he spent most of his childhood, alongside his siblings, working the fields owned by his father. He left home at an early age in pursuit of knowledge which guided him for the rest of his life. Whatever name he answered to, one thing was sure, he answered. Whether a flat tire on the side of the road, a leaky faucet, late night calls, or a hug, he was always on the ready.

A Marine Honor Guard, our dad guarded President John F. Kennedy. He also stood guard along a chain linked fence in Cuba – a nation dividing two nations on the brink of war during the Cuban Missile Crisis. His time in the service led him to New York City where he met the mother of his four children, Elaine on New Year’s Eve in 1962.

He was the most loving and supportive father to his four children. He never judged, only listened. His only hope for his children was that they pursue happiness and support one another. Every challenge, loss, success, game, recital, graduation, wedding, birth, he was there. We will remember him for his witty humor, ability to fix anything broken, and deep knowledge of the universe.

Grandpa or Papa was an equally loving grandfather to his 3 beautiful grandchildren – Ashley, Ethan, and Mollie. His childlike enthusiasm and playful nature made for a lifetime of wonderful memories. Ashley will remember his big heart and smile as well as watching his favorite Westerns on television together. Ethan will remember the bike rides and after school trips to McDonald’s. Mollie will remember all the hugs and snuggles.

As the world stands still in your absence, we take with us the knowledge you passed on and carry you in our hearts forever. Your strength and resilience will help us through this the most challenging moment of our lives. We will remember you when we look at the stars, hear your favorite song, take a tasty bite of your favorite fish, or sip your favorite beer. You will live forever through each and every one of us. We will remember you and carry on your legacy – one of love, acceptance, and curiosity. Rest in eternal peace until we meet again, Dada.

Ernest is survived by his four children: Wayne Ernest Boggan, Caroline Anne Boggan, Lori Astrid Boggan, and Amanda Elaine Mora, with their spouses/partner: Pamela Lynn Boggan, Dan Patrick Hanley, Fredrik Brännström, and Sean Michael Mora, three grandchildren: Ashley Lynn Carter, Ethan Michael Mora, and Mollie Iris Mora, six sisters: Anita Faye Murphy, Barbara Annie Bennett, Charlotte Dianne McKay, Carolyn Sue Monroe, Linda Carol Lot, and Donna Marie Boggan, as well as many nieces and nephews and his former wife of 25 years, Elaine Boggan.

The family would like to thank Halifax Hospice and all who cared so compassionately for our father during his long struggle. We would especially like to acknowledge our beautiful mother, Elaine Boggan, who is a shining example of selflessness and compassion as she cared for our father during his decline these past two years. And thank you to our dearest cousin Jennifer Ross for being by our side through this as well as capturing the day we celebrate his life and lay him to rest.

A service for family and friends will be held at Baldwin Brothers Funeral Home on January 16, 11:00 a.m. followed by interment at Sea Pines Memorial Gardens.