NEW HANOVER COUNTY — It is with profound sadness that the family of Ernest Eugene Wayland III mourns his passing at the age of 86, following a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s.
Ernie was born and raised in Charlotte, NC. Later, he lived in California, Florida and New York before returning to New Hanover County, NC, 21 years ago.
Ernie will be lovingly remembered by Cindy (McCall) Wayland, his wife of 38 years, his daughter Elizabeth Morgan, grand-children Delilah and Shane, sister Suzanne Moss and multiple cousins, nephews and friends.
He was pre-deceased by his step-father, Henry Branstetter, his mother, Frances McCrea Marston, and son, Ernest McCrea Wayland.
Ernie served his country in the Marine Reserves and carried that sense of duty proudly his entire life.
He had a life-long love of fishing, which led to his profession in the seafood industry. He held President and Vice President positions in major importing companies on the east and west coasts. He had numerous articles published in national and global seafood industry magazines.
Ernie met his wife, Cindy, in Laguna Niguel, California at the local YMCA. They both knew on their first date that they would be together. They married in 1988 and have enjoyed a life of love, family, fly fishing, pheasant hunting, golf and cooking together. They were devoted to one another.
Ernie is fondly remembered by lifelong friends from the seafood industry and alumni from Bronxville High School in NY who recall him as a stand-up guy and a “quietly powerful leader.” He had a great sense of humor and a knack for telling stories that made others laugh until tears flowed. He was loved and respected by all who met him. He will be missed.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
