Earnest "Ernie" Lamar

Funeral services with military honors for Earnest “Ernie” Lamar, 81, of Lufkin will be held Thursday, January 18, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. in the Elwyn M. Gipson Memorial Chapel in the Garden of Memories Memorial Park with Pastor Steve Cowart officiating. Interment will follow.

Mr. Lamar was born June 18, 1936 in Durant, Oklahoma to the late Adeline (Gould) and Merle Lamar, and died Monday, January 15, 2018 at his residence.

CW2 Earnest “Ernie” Lamar retired from the United States Army on September 30, 1974 after 21 years active service, serving in both Korea and two tours in Vietnam. Over his 21-year career he was awarded numerous medals including Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm and the Bronze Star.

There were two great loves in Earnest’s life, his wife who preceded him in death and golf. After retiring from the service Earnest moved to Lufkin and worked 18 years at the Lufkin Papermill. After retirement he and Kay travelled, and he spent much time enjoying his second love, golf. He played almost every Monday-Thursday with a group affectionately known as the “Nooners”.

Survivors include his son, Doug Lamar and wife Merry of Alto; daughter, Robin Burnett and husband Alan of Lufkin; grandchildren, Kara Lamar and fiance’ Tray Reagan, and Kaleb Lamar, all of Alto; sisters, Virginia Lamar and Johnnie Monaco, both of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife, Kay Lamar; brothers, Odis, Otha, and Robert; and sisters, Margaret and Merlene.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice in the Pines, 1504 W. Frank Avenue, Lufkin, Texas 75904.

The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday evening at Carroway Funeral Home.

Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.