Ernestine Champion Pridgen
November 16, 1956 – November 16, 2025
Ernestine Champion Pridgen, 69, of Youngsville, passed away peacefully on her birthday, November 16, 2025. She was born on November 16, 1956, in Franklin County to the late Joe Champion and Martha Louise Pearce Champion.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved sister, Alicia Joan Champion. She was also preceded in death by her husband Autry Wayne Pridgen, with whom she shared many joyful years.
Ernestine is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Karen Adkins (significant other, Marshall), Kimly Hart, Missy Wright (Chad); her sisters, Tracy Champion, Christine Collier (Randy), and Tricia Stillwell; and her cherished grandchildren: Maxx Hyatt, Kimberly Nine, Ethan Nine, Hunter Hart, Ariel Adkins, Cadence Adkins, Ivy Adkins, Harley Smallwood, and Greyson Smallwood.
Ernestine was a woman full of life, laughter, and love. She had a passion for yard sales, always on the hunt for a hidden treasure or a good bargain. She never passed up a sweet dessert, and her sweet tooth was as legendary as her warm heart. She especially loved camping with her family, where she enjoyed being surrounded by nature, sharing meals, and making memories with those she loved most. Friday evenings out to eat were one of her favorite weekly traditions—she looked forward to good food and even better company. She also had a special love for crossword puzzles, which she enjoyed working on quietly, often with a Diet Mountain Dew nearby. And no one could appreciate a good nap quite like she could—she believed in the power of rest and relaxation.
The family will receive guests at the home of Karen Adkins, located at 95 Floyd Rd., Louisburg, NC.
A visitation will be held from 6:00-7:30 pm, Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at Strickland Funeral Home & Crematory, 211 W. Third St., Wendell, NC 27591. A funeral service will take place at 2:00 pm, Thursday, November 20, 2025, in the Strickland Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Bunn Memorial Gardens.
Arrangements are with Strickland Funeral Home & Crematory, 211 W. Third St., Wendell. www.stricklandfuneral.com
2 Comments
One of my sweet nieces that have passed on way too soon. She and her twin Christine and Tricia spend many weekends with me and my husband Charles which was their daddy’s baby brother. At that time Tracy had not been born, I will miss her. When the twins were that age they were identical and remained that way for a long time. The only way I could tell them apart was Ernestine has a spot/freckle/mold or something under her left eye. May the good Lord give them all comfort in the days ahead. Love them all very much.
Karen, Christine and family,
My condolences to each of you and the loss of your loved one.
I have fond memories of our families spending time at the Collier’s place at White Lake. Also, fun times at the softball field watching Karen and Kristen playing softball.
May prayers from friends give you comfort and peace.at this time of loss.
Love, Tammy
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