Ernest Douglas Etheridge, 76, of Ash, N.C. peacefully entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, after a brief illness, surrounded by his devoted family. 

Mr. Etheridge was born March 18, 1949, in Ravenel, SC, a son of Mabel Infinger Hughes and the late Ernest Stokes Etheridge. He attended the College of Charleston where he graduated in 1975.  After graduating from the College of Charleston he began his career with Sears serving 18 years as Automotive Manager. For the past 21 years he was employed by Home Depot until his recent illness.  He was an active member of Longwood Baptist Church. It was at church where he met the love of his life Shelly and the two who made him a father, Zack and Carly. Doug’s kind, mindful nature proved steadfast support for his family, and he was a welcoming friend to all he met.

He was preceded in death by his father Ernest Stokes Etheridge, sister Annette Anderson of Charleston, SC and brother St. Claire Hughes of Newberry, SC.

Mr. Etheridge is survived by his mother Mabel Infinger Hughes of Shallotte NC, his devoted wife of 25 years, Shelly Benton Etheridge, his children, Zachary (Amanda) White of Gallivants Ferry, SC and Carly (Ryan) Carr, and grandson Benton Alan Carr of Shallotte, NC. He is also survived by one sister Linda Etheridge of Vero Beach FL, one brother Jerry Etheridge of Barnwell SC, as well as many brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Gail Hughes of Centerville, OH. Julie Phillips (Michael) of Ash, NC, Johanna McLamb (Ashley) of Little River, SC and Jason Benton (Michelle) of Ash, NC. Along with many special nieces, nephews and great nephews.

In addition to a close, large and loving extended family, Doug leaves behind many dear friends, too numerous to count, that he thoroughly enjoyed visiting, talking and laughing with on a daily basis. Even when he became unable to talk, his eyes sparkled with joy, love and laughter. He was a gregarious soul whose humor, laughter and smiles touched all who knew him. Until his last day Doug continued to witness to many caregivers and visitors about the grace of God and faith held true in His Savior, Jesus Christ.

In lieu of flowers the family would be honored by donations to Longwood Baptist Church Building Fund, PO Box 118, Longwood, NC  28452 or Gideons International Bible Fund, PO Box 834, Shallotte, NC  28459 in Doug’s memory.

The family will receive friends beginning at 2:00PM with services following at 3:00PM on Friday April 11, 2025, at Longwood Baptist Church, 2530 Longwood Road NW, Longwood NC, 28452. Interment will follow at Longwood Baptist Church Cemetery.