Ernest Leon McElhaney

Ernest Leon McElhaney, of Norfolk, VA, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Friday, September 5, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on May 6, 1948, Ernest was the beloved son of Daisy Elizabeth (Paschall) Batliner and Leon Clyde McElhaney. Ernest was a lifelong member of the Church of Christ where he was baptized.
As a native of Norfolk, Ernest attended Norview Highschool, and after graduation he went on to honorably serve his country in Vietnam in the United States Army. Following his military service, he built a long and steady career as a mechanic for Mary Jane Bread Company and MIT, and then a driver with Action Paving and Construction, working tirelessly until retiring.
Ernest was a man of simple joys and steady devotion. He enjoyed spending his time at home relaxing and watching TV after a long day at work, being with family and friends, casting a fishing line on a quiet day and dreaming of catching the "Big One". His passion was always to find ways to provide for his family, which later led to his interest in stocks. He enjoyed the challenge and rhythm of trading stocks and always kept an eye on the stock markets with curiosity and discipline.
Ernest will be remembered by his quiet strength, his open door and hospitality, and his steadfast love for his family, friends, and country.
Ernest is survived by his wife, Patricia Jean McElhaney, with whom he shared forty-nine (49) devoted years of marriage and was his constant partner in life and love. His sister, Elizabeth Lang, his proud and loving daughter, Theresa Lori McElhaney, his stepdaughters, Christine Leigh Brown and Stephanie Lynn Murphy, his Brother-in-Law, Kenneth Robertson, and his grandchildren, Alex, Tony, Nicole, Isabelle, Jacob, Ryan, Richard, Tiffany and Todd. He is predeceased by his father, Leon Clyde McElhaney; mother, Daisy Elizabeth (Paschall) Batliner; sister, Sandra Christine McElhaney, and many dear loved ones who have gone before him.
Cremation and Funeral Services of Tidewater is assisting the family with the arrangements, and a graveside service will be held at a later date.
The family asks that you honor Ernest's memory by donating to your local SPCA, PETA or local animal shelter/care center.
Ernest will be deeply missed and forever remembered. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ernest, please visit our floral store.