Ernest Carl Stroup, age 90, of Lenoir, North Carolina passed away on Thursday, October 15, 2026.

Ernest was born on September 10, 1936 in Burke County, North Carolina to the late Carl and Mary Ellen Stroup.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sisters, Modene Stroup and Jeannine Carriker.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Susan Stroup; sons, David Stroup (Alexa) and Sam Mackey (Natalie); daughters, Dawn Gray (Jeff) and Laura Dixon; sisters, Mary Kirby Joplin (Maynard) and Jo Ann Curtis; and grandchildren, Joseph Dixon, Alexandra Gray, Kolbin Mackey, Ezra Stroup, and Rosie Stroup.

Ernie was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, grandfather, teacher, coach, and principal. He was loved and cherished, and he will be remembered fondly by many. He cherished spending time with his family. Ernie was a Hibriten Panthers fan, but he was a Carolina Panthers fan through and through. He loved watching their games. Ernie had many goals, but one of them was to see as many national and state parks as possible in his RV.

Per Ernie’s request, there will be no traditional services held. Instead, a visitation to honor his life will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026 from 2:00pm until 4:00pm at the Greenway Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall.

To honor Ernest and his family, those in attendance are encouraged to wear Carolina Panthers gear or colors.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.greer-mcelveenfuneralhome.com.

Greer-McElveen Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family.