Ernestine R. Hassell
April 14, 1947 – July 15, 2026

Ernestine Roughton Hassell, 79, of Columbia, walked into our Savior's arms on July 15, 2026.

Born April 14, 1947, in Nuremberg, Germany, she was the daughter of the late Ernest and Lottie Roughton. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Amy Hassell Norman, and her faithful dachshund, Max.

Ernestine loved everyone, which was easily seen in her care of patients as a nurse at the Tyrrell County Health Department.  Her pride in her work and the relationships she formed were evident when she met former patients while out in the community after her retirement. Each one always shared a story or a hug with her as she asked about their children and grandchildren.

Ernestine was a member of Sound Side Missionary Baptist Church, where she was a former member of both the choir and Sound Side Chimers. She also taught children's Sunday School classes and worked with Vacation Bible School.

Ernestine enjoyed fishing, playing board games, and reading. She was a talented carver who created many beautiful pieces of art that are displayed in numerous homes in surrounding communities. As an avid ECU Pirates Football fan, she could be found cheering on the Purple and Gold and helping coach from her recliner.

Her deepest love was for her family and most especially her grandson, Noah. They could often be found staying up past midnight just talking about life. His Nana never missed watching Noah's ECU Symphonic Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble concerts on live stream and would voice her opinions about each piece of music when she next saw him in person. Ernestine enjoyed traveling to see band concerts conducted by her daughter, Tiffany, in Bear Grass, and spent every evening with her husband, Elmo, living the simple life, having supper and watching Jeopardy and HGTV together.

Ernestine is survived by her husband, Elmo of Columbia; daughter, Tiffany (John) of Bear Grass; grandson, Noah of Bear Grass; sisters, Linda Spruill, Barbara Fleming (Jimmy), and Heidi Worten, all of Columbia.

A funeral service will be held at Soundside Missionary Baptist Church on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. with Dr. Jeff Crabtree officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Friends may visit with the family in the church fellowship hall on Saturday from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to everyone who has offered prayers, support, and kindness during this difficult time. They would also like to thank the nurses, doctors, and support staff at ECU Health Greenville for their wonderful care and compassion; you will always be remembered. Also, thank you to Chowan River Rehab for the time she spent in your care.

Flowers are welcomed and appreciated. Send donations to Sound Side Missionary Baptist Church (SSMBC) Ladies Aid, c/o Dr. Allen Brickhouse 422 Bridge Path  Road, Columbia NC 27925.

Arrangements are by Bryan Funeral Service, Columbia.