Ernie Lee Hussey, 76, formerly of Havelock, NC, died unexpectedly on May 18, 2023 at his home in Asheboro, NC. He was born March 18, 1947 in Robbins, NC. He graduated from North Carolina State University with a Bachelors in Science in Horticulture and Botany and researched with the esteemed Dr. Nelson at NCSU. He taught at Havelock High School 1969-72, and in partnership with Kenneth Piner of Williston, started East Carolina Nursery, eventually expanding to include six commercial greenhouses. Ernie was known locally especially for his beautifully grown poinsettias. He married Jo Walker and together they opened Havelock Garden Center. The business expanded to Plant World, Morehead City, and Ernie’s Gift World, Atlantic Beach. Ernie was also a licensed real estate broker and owned Hussey Business Brokers in Craven-Carteret counties. As hardworking as he was, he always had time to enjoy his love of nature and also made time to teach others to love it as well.
He is survived by his children: Dr. Jeanne Hopkins of Portsmouth, VA, Shannon Maynard and her husband, Paul, of Papillion, NE, and Ernie Lee Hussey, Jr. (“E.J.”) of Havelock, NC. He is also survived by sisters Brenda McMillan and husband Jack of Whispering Pines and Minnie Higgins and husband Andy of Fountain Valley, CA and brothers David, Barney, and Joel Hussey, all of Robbins, NC, many special cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
Ernie was preceded in death by his parents, Alice and Carl Hussey, sisters Barbara (Ashworth) and Martha (Brewer), and brothers Worthy (Melinda), James (Eva), and Frank (Livera) Hussey.
A memorial service will be 2:00 PM, June 4, 2023 at the Smyrna Church, Robbins, NC where Ernie was a proud member. Smyrna Church is considered the church foundation for the Hussey family. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 1 PM and following the service in the Smyrna Family Life Center.
Kennedy Funeral Home is serving the Hussey Family.
Condolences online at pinesfunerals.com
