Ernestine Pasley Hartigan

Ernestine “Ernie” Pasley Hartigan., age 101, of Scruggs, Virginia, completed her earthly journey on Thursday, December 11, 2025. She was born on September 22, 1924 in Scruggs, Virginia. She was preceded in death by the love of her life, Jim Hartigan, Sr., her parents, Samuel Pasley and Cora Belle English Pasley, son-in-law John Hickle, grandson Anthony Hickle, and six older siblings (Charlie, Nannie, Zelda, Herman, Ray and Ronald).

Ernie is survived by her daughters, Lynne Humphreys (Pete) and Jeanette Hatcher (Craig), and son, Dr. James E. Hartigan, Jr. (Debbie); three cherished grandchildren, Chris Elliott, Andrew Hickle, and Valerie Dimkovikj, and five great-grandchildren, Jason, Hazel, Gwenyth, Lola, and Elora, one sister, Anne McBride, as well as numerous nephews and nieces, and countless friends.

Ernie and Jim met at New London Academy where Jim was completing his High School diploma after WWII. Ernie was a teacher there, so they had to get permission from the school board before they began dating. They were married in June 1948. She was an adoring and devoted wife who took care of Jim until his death in November 2024.

Ernie received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Radford College and began her career as a teacher. She taught in Bedford, Roanoke and Franklin County schools, and concluded her full-time career as a guidance counselor at Staunton River High School. After retirement, she worked as a substitute teacher and tutored Spanish speaking students in Franklin County. She loved her students and devoted herself to helping them achieve their dreams.

Ernie found her joy in faithful service and family. She and Jim enjoyed working in their flower beds and vegetable garden, taking quiet walks, camping (often with grandchildren) and traveling. Ernie was also an excellent seamstress and enjoyed knitting beautiful sweaters. She pursued every endeavor with an energy level that could not be matched by any of us.

She was a faithful servant of Christ while attending Belmont Christian, Westhampton Christian and Mt. Ivy Christian, her home church. She was selfless with her love, time and energy while caring for Pasley family members and those in the community when they were ill or in need. Her green beans were renowned and provided nourishment for scores of souls over the years. Her legacy of love and faith will live on in our hearts forever.

A joint celebration of life for Ernie and Jim will be held at Mt. Ivy Christian Church, 1:00 p.m. Saturday, March 28, 2026 with Steve Pasley, Minister officiating.  In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be sent to Mt. Ivy Christian Church, 5120 Scruggs Road Moneta, VA 24121.