Ernest Vann

Ernest Lee Vann, Sr. affectionally known as "Lee" was born on November 2, 1950, to the late Johnnie and Mary Vann in Phenix City, Alabama. Lee peacefully transitioned his life's journey from labor to reward November 29, 2024, at home.
Lee was a man of few words, but his character, integrity, actions, and deeds spoke volumes. He was a man of his word and would go out of his way to assist anyone in need. He was a devoted husband, father, family man and friend.
The family moved to Jacksonville when Lee was young, and he was educated in the local public schools and graduated from Old Stanton High School in 1969. He was enlisted in the United States Air Force early enlisted program and entered basic training soon after graduating. He served four years of active duty followed by two years in the Air National Guards Reserves.
Lee was employed by Jacksonville Transportation Authority for 32 years and received the honor of Driver of the Month on several occasions and Driver of the Year. After retirement from JTA Lee worked for Jacksonville Parks & Recreation for four years followed by four years at the Jacksonville Port Authority.
Lee was a faithful member of Knights of Columbus Masons and served as Worshipful Master (President) for several years. He was also Assistant Scout Master with Boy Scout Troop #286. He played a pivotal role with the "Sassy Senior Chapter" of Red Hat Society where Cynthia was Queen (President). He was an avid gardener with a green thumb, growing plants that stood taller than him, and his lawn was the "envy" of the neighborhood, with people frequently stopping to ask for his care tips.
Upon graduating from Stanton Lee was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart Cynthia W. Waters. They celebrated 55 years of marriage shortly before his passing, and to this union three children were born, Ernest Lee Jr., Shawn Gregory Vann (Hayme) and Tiffany Lenese Cole (Corey), and one very special grandson Josiah N. Cole, who was the apple of his eye.
Lee was preceded in death by his brother Ronald Gene Vann.
He leaves to celebrate his life and mourn his passing three sisters, Valerie Vann, Eleanor Price (John), Keisha Scott and a sister-in-love Jacqueline Richardson, nephews Leon Vann, Steven Vann and Eric Griffin, nieces Barbara Mills, Jackie Johnson, Meliscia Jackson, Johnese Jackson, Imani Scott, Kierra Scott and a niece-in-love Dana Richardson, a very special friend, "brother" and neighbor for 54 years, David Williams, and a host of family and friends.
Ernest Vann passed away Friday, November 29th, 2024. Arrangements in Care of: Funerals by T.S. Warden, 904-765-1234
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