Ernest Leo McElroy

Ernest Leo McElroy beloved husband, father and grandfather, died on June 25, 2025, at the age of 96. He was born on December 7, 1928, in Columbia, South Carolina, to the late Dr. Homer Attaway McElroy and the late Carrie Lou Richey McElroy. He lived a life marked by service, dedication, love and quiet faith.
Ernest was a loving family man. He shared 67 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Pat McElroy. They were blessed with two children, Tom McElroy (Cheri) and Leslie Willingham (Richard). They were also blessed with three grandchildren who called him Big Daddy: Wes McElroy, Madison McElroy and Tyler McElroy.
Ernest was known as Bud to his sisters and their families; the late Edna Mae Carns (Walter) and the late Evelyn Richardson (Phil) and his nieces and nephew; Phyllis Wood (Warren), Karen Freshley (Steve) and Bucky Carns (the late Edwina).
Ernest served in the Navy for four years including during the Korean War. Shortly after his service in the Navy he moved to Atlanta and worked for several different companies before he retired from the DeKalb County Tax Assessor's Office.
Ernest and Pat are long-time members of Embry Hills UMC where he attended church and sometimes Sunday school and is remembered for working to beautify the church grounds. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. They took many trips camping, traveling the U.S. and enjoying the beach and the mountains. An enduring fan of SEC football and his alma mater the University of South Carolina, Ernest watched college football on multiple TVs every Saturday during football season. He started playing tennis in his 60s and enjoyed it for many years. He was beloved by his many cats and dogs but especially his last sidekick, KitKat. Ernest loved being outdoors. He grew tomatoes and beans and tended to his yard. He stayed active all his 96 years.
Family and friends are invited to honor Ernest's life and legacy at his funeral services at Embry Hills United Methodist Church, 3304 Henderson Mill Rd Atlanta, GA 30341. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral service with military honors at 11:00 AM.
Ernest will then be committed to rest at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at 10 am.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations in his memory to Embry Hills United Methodist Church, The Lighthouse Family Retreat, Rayo De Sol and Never Alone Widows.
On-line condolences may be expressed at www.crowellbrothers.com. Arrangements entrusted to Crowell Brothers Funeral Homes & Crematory, 5051 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092. 770-448-5757.