Ernest Peter Jackson, III, age 80, of Royston, peacefully passed away on Friday, May 31, 2024, at St. Mary's Sacred Heart Hospital.

Born on August 8, 1943, in Stuttgart, Arkansas, he was the beloved son of the late Ernest Peter Jackson, Jr. and Sara Beasley Jackson. Ernest enjoyed a distinguished career at Northeast Georgia Bank, where he retired as vice-president. He was a devoted fan of NASCAR racing and Georgia Bulldog Football, and he took great pleasure in collecting various memorabilia. In his younger years, he was an enthusiastic participant in rugby and golf, and he cherished his time spent hunting and fishing.

Ernest leaves behind a loving family. He is survived by his daughter, Andrea Jackson (Felisha Allen); his son, Ernest P. Jackson, IV (LeAnn); and his cherished grandson, Connor Jackson. He is also remembered by the mother of his children, Mary Lou Jackson; his brothers, Tim Jackson and Jerry Jackson (Teresa); and his sister, Pam Riley (Sam). In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandson, Cameron Jackson.

A graveside service to celebrate Ernest's life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Lavonia City-Burgess Cemetery, officiated by Rev. Chris Chitwood. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Saturday from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital (stjude.org) or the Madison Oglethorpe Animal Shelter (moaspets.com).

Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is entrusted with the arrangements. To share your condolences and sign the online guest register, please visit stricklandfh.com.