Ernest L. Rhynes, 83 of Ina died Saturday Aug 18, 2001.

He was born Sept 13, 1917 in Jefferson County, Son of Walter Lee and Nellie Martha Osborn Rhynes.

He married Velma Lee Wells on Dec 20, 1941 and she survives.

In addition to his wife he is survived by three daughters Nancy Lynne Webb and husband Leslie of Sesser, Janice Elaine Pigge and husband David of Mt Vernon and Cheryl Denise Conner and husband Terry of Ina. Eight grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and a special neice Wilma Gulley and husband Alan of Benton.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by one sister, Juastina Grahlherr, and one son James "Jimmy" Rhynes

Mr Rhynes was known for his love of music, family and friends. He colaborated on a book of folk music with the late Bill Settlemire which is at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tn. A tape of his music is in the National Archives in New York City. He and friends represented the Heartland by performing country and folk music at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, DC and he was a mentor to many aspiring musicians, young and old. He was a Member of Elk Prairie Christian Church for 75 years, where he served as an Elder.

Services will be held Tuesday at 11 AM at Ina Freewill Baptist Church with the Rev. Jesse Allen and Elder Larry Osborn officiating. Interment will be at Abner Cemetery in Nason. Johnston Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Source: Mt. Vernon Register News
Date: August 18, 2001
Submitted by: Jan Pigge
Relationship: Daughter