Ernest Richard Jenkinson: Sumter

    Ernest Richard Jenkinson of Sumter passed away Thursday, May 16 at Tuomey Regional Medical Center, Sumter. He was 96.
    Born in Sumter County on November 15, 1916, he was a son of the late William Richard “Dick” and Nora Ardis Jenkinson. He served in the military in the Army Air Corps during WWII, he graduated from the Tennessee School of Broadcasting in Nashville, Tenn., and returned to Sumter in 1952. He was then employed as an engineer at WFIG Radio Station and later became the famous “EJ the DJ”. In 1982 he married Betty Briggs Josephs, is high-school sweetheart. They had 12 glorious years together before she passed away. He received his BA degree in Elementary Education from USC Sumter in 2004 as the oldest graduate ever from that college, and has enjoyed substitute teaching ever since then. He was a very active member of Trinity United Methodist Church and the Fellowship Sunday School Class, a member of American Legion P-15, and a member of Sumter Amateur Radio Association.
    Surviving is one step-son, William V. Josephs, Jr. (Drucilla) of Loris; three step-grandsons, William V. “Trey” Josephs, III (Marie) of Loris, Mark J, Josephs (Shannon) of Loris and E. Blake Josephs of Sumter; seven step-great grandchildren; one brother, Benjamin Ryan Jenkinson of Charlotte; one sister, Nell Swartz of Sumter; and numerous nieces and nephews.
    He was predeceased by his wife, Betty; two sisters, Annie Mae Beall and Iva Sowell; and one brother, George Jenkinson.
    Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, May 20 at Trinity United Methodist Church with the Rev. Kevin Gorry officiating. Burial followed in the Sumter Cemetery.
    Memorials may be sent to Trinity United Methodist Church, 226 W. Liberty St., Sumter, SC 29150.
    The family is very appreciative of the wonderful staff for their many kindnesses at Tuomey Regional Medical Center.
    A Service of Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home, Sumter.