Ernest Garland Minns

Ernest Garland Minns entered into eternal rest on October 8, 2025, at the age of 78. He was born on August 11, 1947, to the late Albert Otis Minns and Ollie B. Wade Washington in Charles City, Virginia.

Ernest was also preceded in death by the love of his life, Annette Marie Minns; stepfather Willie "2 Daddy" Washington Jr.; grandmother Rosenell; and brothers, John Lewis Wade and Albert “Bunny” Minns.

Affectionately known as “Mick” and “Tool Man,” Ernest was educated in the Charles City County Public School System. He was employed for many years with the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation and the 1776 hotel before becoming a self-employed landscaper.

Mick enjoyed fishing, playing cards, and riding with friends, but it was well known that he had to be home by 12:29 p.m. to watch The Young and the Restless. He was a devoted fan of Mickey Mouse and had an extensive collection of memorabilia. Mick also loved watching girls’ fast-pitch softball and was an avid sports enthusiast, though he never claimed a favorite team.

At family gatherings, everyone knew that once Mick showed up, it was picture time. As the family photographer, you could always count on him to capture every moment. You could also expect a phone call from Mick on your special day, and people would often say, “That’s Mickey a walking memory bank.”

He leaves to cherish his loving memory with his two children, Ernestine “Tina” Minns of Williamsburg and Tyrone Brown (Stacy) of California; a special aunt, Mattie Minns Phillips; brothers Otis Wade (Vickie), Willie Washington III (Darlene), and James Jefferson (Dale); sisters, Connie Pugh and Savanna “Nettie” Jones (Bruce); five grandchildren, Ebony Jimmison, Alexis Trotter, Whitney Brown, Kyle Fayerweather, and Jared Brown (Katie); three great-grandchildren, Kennedy Hamilton, Destiny Tuck, and Trinity Tuck; three special friends, Ernest Jones, Keith Jones, and Michael Smith; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, with a viewing beginning at Noon.  Interment to follow in Jerusalem Baptist Church Cemetery, Charles City.

Professional services have been entrusted to the staff of Whiting's Funeral Home, 7005 Pocahontas Trail, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185. 757-229-3011 whitingsfuneralhome.com

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