Ernie Lee Roberson, 75

Mr. Ernie Lee Roberson, 75, of Swainsboro, passed away Thursday, November 28, 2024, at his residence following an extended illness. Funeral services were held Monday, December 2, at 11 a.m. in the chapel of Chapman of Funeral Home with Reverend Mark Hardin officiating. Interment followed in the Roberson Family Cemetery. The family received friends Sunday, December 1, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Chapman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were Dakota Blount, Garrett Roberson, Ashley Roberson, Slade Fields, Jonathan Stevens and Terry Roberson. Honorary pallbearers were Charles Hadden and Shannon Stapleton.

Mr. Roberson was born on March 11, 1949, in Swainsboro, to the late Lester Roberson and Janie Durden Roberson. He grew up with his grandmother, but also knew his mother and father. Ernie quit school at an early age to take care of his family. After years of struggle, he pursued his lifelong dream of opening his own mechanic shop and had over 40 years in business.

Ernie served his country in the Army for three years and was in the Vietnam war. He married his sweetheart, Madge. They met at the skating rink where they both enjoyed skating. Together they raised four kids, Alexander, Frances, Chad, and Priscilla. Ernie worked extremely hard over the years to provide for his family, never once complaining. Even though he was tough in his own way, he always wanted what was best for his family. Ernie was always there for his family whenever they needed anything.

In addition to his mechanic shop, Ernie loved hunting, collecting guns, fishing, planting gardens, and skating in his younger days. He had a special talent for making things grow. Ernie would always give away his first fresh produce. When it came to fishing, he would always say the crickets would bite just for the fun of it. Ernie loved his guns and would collect them no matter the size.

Ernie will be remembered as one of the toughest men you will ever have known but he also had the biggest heart when it counted. He leaves behind a legacy of strength, resilience, and hard work. Ernie taught you not to always judge a book by its cover; just because someone is tough as nails, it could be a cover. His family will always carry his valuable lessons at heart. Ernie was a caring and tough father, grandfather, and person. No matter what life threw at him, he always made it out. Ernie will always be remembered as the strongest, most resilient, and hardest working man his family has ever known. Mr. Roberson is preceded in death by his parents; son, Alexander Roberson; and brother, Ronnie Roberson.

Mr. Roberson is survived by his wife, Madge Roberson; daughters, Frances Durden and Priscilla (James) Blount; son, Chad Roberson; brother, Dan Roberson, Sr., all of Swainsboro; sisters, Wanda Gordy of Swainsboro, Jan Akridge of Stillmore and Sarah Jones (Ricky) of Wrightsville; mother-in-law, Margie Fouche of Swainsboro; nine grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Chapman Funeral Home of Swainsboro was in charge of arrangements.