Ernest Grayson Swanner

   Ernest Grayson “Ernie” Swanner, 79, of 219 Roanoke Trail, Edenton, NC, died Tuesday, March 15, 2022 in his home.

   Mr. Swanner was born in Chowan County on July 9, 1942, and was the son of the late Ernest M. and Grace Cayton Swanner. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Nelva Jean Bellflower.

   As a young man, Mr. Swanner enjoyed years as a volunteer fireman in the Wythe Fire Dept. in Hampton, Virginia. A Navy veteran and Recreational Cessna Pilot, he held an Associate in Arts degree and had retired from the construction industry as a builder to serve as Building Inspector in Camden County. Later, he served in the same capacity in Gates County and Ahoskie. At the age of 76, he finished his career as Code Enforcement Officer in Perquimans County.

   Surviving is his wife, Jerry Lucille Powell Swanner; three sons, Steven Critzer (Debbie) of Williamsburg, VA, Paul Swanner of Hampton, VA, and Sean Swanner of Edenton; two sisters, Kathy Swanner Nixon (Thomas) of Edenton and Beth Fromal (Donnie) of Newport News, VA; two brothers, Richard Swanner and Arthur Swanner (Diane), both of Edenton; two grandchildren, Trinity Reighn Swanner and Bret Critzer (Tamara); and two great-grandchildren, Alice and Cade Critzer.

   Mr. Swanner’s memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 26^th at 12:00 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Bandon Chapel, 200 Bandon Rd., Edenton.

   Family visitation will be held at the home of Arthur & Diane Swanner, 204 Chowan Trail, Edenton, immediately after the service.