Ernest Malone McDermon III

Ernest Malone McDermon III, a resident of Salisbury, NC, departed this world on September 19, 2023, just three days shy of his 70th birthday. Born on September 22, 1953, in Newport News, VA, Ernest, affectionately known as "Mac" in honor of his father, was the cherished and only son of Ernest Malone, Jr. and Virginia Liberty McDermon. Mac's journey through life was both remarkable and inspiring. He graduated from Ferguson High in Newport News, Virginia, and embarked on a transformative path at Virginia Tech as part of the Corps of Cadets. When faced with the draft during his freshman year, he made the brave decision to enlist in the Army, ultimately serving in the Vietnam War, where he celebrated his 19th birthday. His comrades fondly called him "Ernie" during his time in the service. Upon returning to the United States, he pursued his academic dreams while enlisted, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Environmental Health from East Tennessee State University. With unwavering dedication, Major McDermon continued his military career as a commissioned officer in the Army and retired as a Major. His tenure in the Army was nothing short of extraordinary, featuring numerous achievements, including becoming a Parachute Jump Master with over 1,000 jumps, both in the military and for sport. He also completed his Army Ranger qualifications and proudly served as a Green Beret on a Special Forces team. In a testament to his leadership, he assumed the role of Company Commander for an Infantry Company stationed at Fort Stewart, GA, and carried out deployments in various countries. Major McDermon's passion for history was palpable, as he found great joy in exploring battlefields and sharing his knowledge with his beloved sons. Beyond his military service, Ernie was a dedicated entrepreneur who founded several technology businesses. He was a man of profound generosity, always ready to assist friends and neighbors in their time of need. Ernie's legacy lives on through his two cherished sons, Rob McDermon and Charles McDermon, who reside in Atlanta, GA. He is also survived by his loving sister, Pamela Liberty Thompson of Salisbury, NC, a niece, Jacque (Chace) Jensen of Salisbury, NC, an uncle, Charles Liberty of Williamsburg, VA, and two aunts, June (Ned) Clopton of Langhorne, PA, and Thelma Liberty of Newport News, VA. He is preceded in death by Virginia Lee Liberty McDermon and Ernest Malone McDermon Jr of Newport News, VA, a niece, Virginia Wingfield Thompson of Salisbury, NC, and a brother-in-law, Jack Thompson of Salisbury, NC. Deceased aunts and uncles include Alma and Claude Brinn of Hertford, NC, Ernest and Nathalie McDermon Murphy of Newport News, VA, Dorothy Maxine and Ray Wasdell of Charlotte, NC, and Lou Liberty of Newport News, VA. A military graveside service, honoring Major McDermon's remarkable life, will be held at the Salisbury National Cemetery Annex, 501 Statesville Blvd, Salisbury, NC, on Friday, November 17, 2023, at 10 am. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Virginia Wingfield Thompson Endowed Scholarship at Catawba College or a charity of your choice. Ernest Malone McDermon III will forever be remembered for his valor, dedication, and the profound impact he had on the lives of those fortunate enough to know him.

Ernest Malone McDermon III

September 22, 1953 - September 19, 2023