Ernie Spires,

Ernie C. Spires, Jr., 82, of Portsmouth, died Saturday, December 15, 2012, at his residence. Born on October 8, 1930 in Portsmouth, he was a son of the late Ernie C. and Ethel Coldiron Spires, was a member of the I.B.E.W. Local #575 for over 58 years and a member of All Saints Episcopal Church. Ernie was a former president, coach and active member of the Portsmouth Little League, and volunteer for Meals on Wheels and R.S.V.P. Ernie was an avid golfer, who enjoyed time with his retired friends, and was a loving and giving father and companion. He was a proud Navy veteran of the Korean War, having served on battleship U.S.S. Mississippi. Also preceding him in death were his wife of 47 years, Janice Shump Spires, and four sisters, Audrey Fannin, Joy Spires, Helen Smittle and Katherine Englar. Surviving are two sons, Victor Keith (Terrie) Spires of Tampa, Fla. And David Charles (Rosario) Spires of Bradenton, Fla.; three daughters, Elizabeth Ann (Thomas) Rouse of Riverview, Fla., Victoria Kay Felts of Portsmouth and Cynthia L. Creaig of Pataskala; a brother Keith (Linda) Spires of Portsmouth; a sister, Jean (James) Griffith of Portsmouth; 12 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. A Celebration of Life will be held at noon on Friday at All Saints Episcopal Church. The family will receive friends at the BRANT FUNERAL HOME IN PORTSMOUTH from 5 until 8 p.m. on Thursday. Memorial contributions may be made to All Saints Episcopal Church or Hospice of Heartland.

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