Mr. Earnest Lee Harrell, 70, affectionately known as “Santa Claus,” entered into eternal rest and received his heavenly wings on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2015, in Sentara Obici Hospital. Earnest was a native of Suffolk, born Sept. 14, 1945, to Emma Flythe and the late Morris Holloman.

Earnest Lee worked for the City of Suffolk Sanitation Department for 30 years. He was a member of RAW Ministry Church, the Grand Elks Lodge and the Hollywood Civic League and worked at DAV Chapter 5 serving the community.

Earnest Lee is survived by his mother, Emma Flythe; one daughter, Deborah Wingfield (Charles), of New Jersey; grandchildren, Demond Wilkins and Charles Wingfield III; sister, Ella Solos, of Florida; stepsister, Joyce Hoggard, of Suffolk; brother, Lynn Harrell, of Suffolk. He also leave behind special aunts: Ann Harrell and Bessie Harris; special friends: Constance and Suzette Bailey; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Mr. Harrell’s visitation will take place from noon to 7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 12 at the funeral home. A home going service will take place at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 13 at T.E. Cooke-Overton Funeral Home, and he will be laid to rest at Carver Memorial Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy may be extended to the Harrell family at www.cookeovertonfuneralhome.com.

Professional services are entrusted to T.E. Cooke-Overton Funeral Home Inc.