Ernest Jones Washington Jr.

Mr. Washington was born on May 9, 1930 in Pelzer, S.C. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a committed Christian; he was a graduate of Pelzer High School in 1948 and Clemson University in 1952. Mr. Washington was commissioned as an officer in the United States Army in 1952 as a 2nd Lieutenant; where he served our country in the Korean War. He achieved the rank of Captain, and upon his discharge, served in the Army Reserves.

E.J. worked for Woodside Mills in Anderson, S.C., when returning from the war. He eventually managed the Cateechee Plant and Liberty Plant for a few years, then left Woodside and went to work for Kendall Mills in Pelzer, as their purchasing agent. Gerber purchased Kendall Mills and he retired the first time from Kent Manufacturing. Upon retirement, E.J. and two of his sons, Ernie and Joey opened Capri’s Italian Restaurant in Seneca, S.C. and ran a great business until 1996. Eventually, they sold Capri’s and E.J. went to work with his son Ernie at Fatz Café where he ran the front for years until his health prevented him from continuing. He was loved by all the customers at Capri’s and Fatz.

Mr. Washington was an avid Clemson fan, golfer, and was a long-time member of Liberty First Baptist Church, where he served as a Deacon and usher.

E.J. is survived by his sons: E.J. Washington, III, Joey Washington (Karen), and Mark Washington (Janet); his five grandchildren: Victoria House (Troy), Joseph Washington (Brooke), Ben Washington (Chelsea), Rebekah Longaker, and Lydia Washington; six great-great grandchildren: Molly, Emmy, Finley, Cora, Julian and baby Harrison, due in November; a sister-in-law: Bonnie Kelly; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Ernest Jones Washington, Sr. and Emmie Dell; his loving wife of 69 years: Mollie Washington; a daughter: Susan Washington; a grandson: E.J. Washington, IV; a daughter-in-law: Robin Washington; and his sisters Margaret "Tiny" Quinn and Martha Washington.

Mr. Washington's celebration of life service will be conducted at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, October 5, 2022 in the Chapel of Dillard Funeral Home in Pickens, South Carolina with his interment to follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM until 10:45 AM on Wednesday, prior to the service, at Dillard Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.dillardfunerals.com. Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.