Ernest "Candyman" Washington, 89, of Palm Coast, entered the sunset of life on Friday, October 5, 2018 at Stuart F. Meyer Hospice Care Center, Palm Coast. A native of Bartow, GA, he was the son Aaron Washington and Eula Mae Johnson, born on Wednesday, July 10, 1929. His childhood years were spent in Wadley, GA where he was raised by his grandparents, the late John and Ida Wilcher. In 1947, Ernest moved to Brooklyn, NY to pursue his dreams. He spent several years as a restaurant entrepreneur and subsequently became a self-employed home improvement and landscape contractor, specializing in residential renovations. He was a member and Trustee of Wayside Baptist Church of Brooklyn. Even after retirement, his passion for work continued until a few years ago. "Grandpa Ernest" could be found watching a baseball or an 'ole Western and he enjoyed spending time in the garage or his shed working with his many tools. He was a member of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church of Palm Coast and served on the Usher Board.

Ernest was preceded in eternal rest by his brothers; Booker T. Washington, Theodis "Bud" Young, and Willie Johnson; sister, Eunice Boyd; daughter, Linda Parker; son, Kenneth Washington.

He leaves behind to cherish his precious memories; his loving wife, Gladys Washington; beloved children, Ernest Washington Jr., Brenda (Tony) Gibbons, Stanley Washington; step children, Derick (Sandy) Adams and Gail (Ronald) Matthews; siblings, Ruthie Evans, Mildred "Missy" Perez, Sam (Doris) Johnson, Mazetta (Clyde) Coleman, Bernice Johnson, Robert Johnson, Debbie, Richard and Carolyn Washington; and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; other relatives and friends.

A Memorial Celebration of Life will be held at 12 Noon, Saturday, October 13, 2018 at Mount Calvary Baptist Church, Rev. Edwin Coffie, pastor is the eulogist. In lieu of flowers, the family requests Memorial Contributions be presented in loving memory of Ernest Washington, c/o Mt. Calvary Baptist Church-Building Fund, 75 Pine Lakes Parkway South, Palm Coast, FL 32164.