Ernest L. Batten

Mr. Ernest Lee Batten 82, was enroute to his home with medical transportation and once turning onto the street God said its your time. He took one last breath and God said , well done good and faithful servant, thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things, enter thou into the joy of the Lord. Ernest entered eternal rest at 6:10 p.m. on Monday March 27, 2017. He was a native of Carrollton, Virginia and the son of the late Ella Frances Batten Story and was raised by a devoted Grandmother Lena Batten. He graduated in 1955 from Isle of Wight County High School. Later he joined The United States Army in July 14, 1955-July 3, 1957. In April 18, 1959 he married his wife Missouri H. Davis. He returned to the Isle of Wight area and worked at Gwaltney's which is now Smithfield Foods for over 40 years. He retired in 1998 as the Sanitation Department Supervisor. He also volunteered as the Chairman of the Credit Committee of the Gwaltney Employee's Credit Union, Inc. Ernest joined Campbell's Chapel A.M.E. Church at an early age. One of his greatest love was being the Sunday School teacher of the Adult Class # 1. He studied the lesson intensely, and wanted everyone to play a part in receiving the word. He served in many organizations, within the church they include: A dedicated Trustee Board member for many years. He cut the church grass on Thursdays after leaving work. He served on the Usher Board, Lay Organization, Methodist Men's Club, Class Leader, and Wednesday Night Bible Study. He received many awards for his dedicated service to the church: The Richard Allen Award, Award for Outstanding and Dedicated Service, and Living Legend Award. Ernest loved the Lord and his church, and working with the class members of 1955. His presence will be missed, but we will never forget the work he has done, and will continue in God's kingdom. Ernest enjoyed being and working outside, reading, and cars. He was a great Dad and a true man of God. He leaves to cherish his devoted wife of 58 years Missouri Hazel Batten. Two children Jerry I. Batten (Dale) of Midlothian , Virginia, Ernestine Batten-Meekins (John) of Newport News, Virginia. Grandchildren Jermile A. Batten, Johnae C. Meekins, John C. Meekins III, and Nicholas A. Meekins. Sisters in Laws: Della Seward (John), Marion Goodwin, and Ann Davis, and a host of cousins, relatives, classmates, and friends. A Celebration of Life Service will be held 12pm on Saturday, April 1, 2017 at Campbell's Chapel A.M.E Church, Carrollton, Va. Viewing will be from 4-7pm on Friday, March 31, 2017 at Shivers Funeral Chapel. Interment will be in the Campbell's Chapel A.M.E Church cemetery. Professional services entrusted to Shivers Funeral Chapel.

Burial Date April 1, 2017

A Celebration of Life Service will be held 12pm on Saturday, April 1, 2017 at Campbell's Chapel A.M.E Church, Carrollton, Va. Viewing will be from 4-7pm on Friday, March 31, 2017 at Shivers Funeral Chapel. Interment will be in the Campbell's Chapel A.M.E Church cemetery. Professional services entrusted to Shivers Funeral Chapel.