Ernest Norris Ottinger, 90, of Nichols, passed away peacefully Friday, August 15, 2025, at McLeod Hospice House. He was born in Cramerton, North Carolina on March 5, 1935, the son of the late Charles O. Ottinger and the late Kathleen Norris Ottinger.

Ernie was a proud American and a veteran, having served his country as a member of the United States Air Force. While living in North Carolina, he worked with Burlington Industries in their telecommunications department. A highlight of his time spent in North Carolina was restoring an old log cabin, along with his 91-year-old father. He later moved to Mullins to be closer to his daughter. Ernie and his son-in-law owned and operated Palmetto Home Medical Products, providing needed equipment and supplies to patients in the area. He was a former member of the Board of Directors of the Mullins Chamber of Commerce and a member of Macedonia Methodist Church, where he served on various committees through the years. He embraced life with an infectious smile, a story to tell, and a helping hand for anyone who needed it.

In addition to his parents, Ernie was predeceased by a son, Ernest Davis Ottinger, and a sister, Janet Ottinger.

He is survived by his children, Mary Ann (Dave) Brooks, Kimberly (John) Delaney, Chris (Melinda) Ottinger; a brother and sister, Nathan (Judy) Ottinger and Charlene Hager; grandchildren, Lauren (Chad) Farlow, Savannah (Hunter) Alford, Stokes (Jena) Brooks, Zach Ottinger, Avery Ottinger, and Harrison Delaney; great-grandchildren, Nash Alford, Navy Alford, and Ramy Farlow; a special friend and companion, Shirley King.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, August 19, 2025, in the sanctuary of Macedonia Methodist Church in Mullins with interment to follow at Cedardale Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the cemetery following the service and at other times at the home of Dave and Mary Ann Brooks.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Macedonia Methodist Church, 402 North Main Street, Mullins, South Carolina 29574 or to the McLeod Hospice House Butterfly Fund, 1203 East Cheves Street, Florence, South Carolina 29506.

An online guestbook is available for condolences on our website at www.mearesfh.com.

Arrangements and care are being provided by Meares Funeral Home of Mullins.