Ernest Haskins passed away peacefully with family at his side on Friday, April 12, 2013.

During World War II, he proudly served in France and England as part of the 71st Troop Carrier Squadron (AIRBORNE) 434th Troop Carrier Group.

Mr. Haskins graduated from the University of Georgia in 1950 with a degree in Forestry. He remained a loyal Georgia Bulldog, watching every football game on TV, including every rerun available. Ernest worked as a Forester for the Tennessee River Pulp and Paper Company. He also worked for the State of Tennessee as a District Forester in Savannah and Manchester, Tenn. He later worked for many years as the Director of Information and Education for the State of Tennessee Department of Forestry.

He was a native of Lewisburg, and was preceded in death by his loving wife of 57 years, Katie Ruth Thomas Haskins; his parents, James Redmon and Mattie Georgia Davis Haskins; three brothers, Donald, James, and Wayne; and two sisters, Melba and Joy Haskins.

Ernest is survived by his daughter, Susan Spiva and her husband Walter of Orlando, Fla. and his son, Thomas Haskins and his wife Julie; grandchildren, Brayden, James, and Stephanie; and his great-granddaughter, Annabella of Russellville, Ky.

London Funeral Home is in charge of the services.

Visitation will be Thursday, April 18, from 4 to 7 p.m.

Funeral services will be Friday, April 19, at 10 a.m., followed by burial at Lone Oak Cemetery.