Nall Ernest Bradshaw

Nall Ernest Bradshaw, 65, of Hiawassee, passed away on September 10, 2024. Ernie was born on May 31, 1958, in Pontiac, Michigan, to Nall and Betty Bradshaw.

Ernie grew up in Michigan, graduating from Waterford Kettering High School in 1975. Shortly after graduation, he relocated to Evansville, Indiana, with his parents. He then spent a few years in Snellville, Georgia, before eventually settling in Hiawassee in the mid-1990s. There he knew he had found his home. He loved Hiawassee. Ernie, sometimes called Spanky by his friends, was a truck driver for many years. He enjoyed being out and about, picking up and delivering goods and meeting people everywhere he went. He was a “people person” if there ever was one. Ernie possessed a special gift for caregiving and spent many years of his life as a caregiver. During his father's last years of his life, he took care of his dad, tending to him with a gentleness and patience that was both touching and inspiring. He then cared for a gentleman in Hiawasse who was bedridden, seeing to his needs, taking him for drives and doing all that he could to ensure his final years of life were comfortable and filled with companionship.

Earlier in life, Ernie owned motorcycles which he loved riding for many years. Like his father, Ernie truly enjoyed the outdoors. His happy place was fishing or hunting in the beautiful Smoky Mountains or simply enjoying nature from his front porch. He was always up for a game of cards or cornhole and boy, could he cook! Most of all, he cherished time spent with his family and many dear friends. 

Ernie loved pets, especially his dogs. From Dixiebell and Pepperdog early in life, all the way to Hunter and Nugget, his final constant companions. Hunter and Nugget were by his side every day. If you saw Ernie, you saw his two sweet dogs. If you asked any of his family or friends, they would all tell you he was crazy about those dogs, so much so, he always made sure they had their meal before he had his. In return, they were his devoted companions and brought much joy into his life.

Ernie was preceded in death by his parents, Nall and Betty (née Johnson) Bradshaw, his brothers Robert and Dan Lesh, and his sister, Barbara Lesh. 

He is survived by his sister, Carol (Randon) Ziegler, along with his nephews Gregory Young, David Lesh, Noah Lesh and Shawn Panduren, as well as nieces Kristin Henderson, Rachel Young, Belinda Lee, Margaret (Maggie) Gilliland and Molli Lesh.

Ernie’s life was defined by his big, warm heart, helping hand and genuine goodness. All who knew him were the benefactors of his generosity of spirit and love of life. Ernie loved many and was well loved by many. He will be lovingly remembered and sorely missed by all who knew him. 

A Celebration of Life will be held to remember Ernie and share memories in comfort and community with those who knew and cared for him. The event will take place on November 3, 2-5 pm, at the Hiawassee Senior Center. All are invited and welcome to attend.