Ernest D. Wooton

Ernest D. Wooton, entered into eternal rest on May 29, 2020, at the age of 78, surrounded by his loving family in his home in Belle Chasse, Louisiana, due to complications from congestive heart failure. He is survived by his adoring and devoted wife of fifty-three years, Linda Green Wooton. He was preceded in death by his parents: Chester A. Wooton and Thelma Mae Durham Wooton and his brother, John D. Wooton. He is survived by his sister, JoAnn Wooton Defley. Ernest left his legacy of love and wit to his three children: Jeffrey J. Wooton (Peggy), Kimberly Wooton Culpepper (Marvin), and John Dade Wooton (Therese); his nine grandchildren and step-grandchildren: Jacob Wooton, Gavin Culpepper (Averi), Bailey Culpepper, John Dade Wooton II, Ella Wooton, Blake Culpepper, Megan Torres (Gus), and Erin Ness; and his great-grandson and step great-grandchildren: Ace Culpepper, Tyler Elmer, Riley Elmer, Cruz Torres, and Chloe Torres. Ernest, a native of Plaquemines Parish, was a graduate of Port Sulphur High School. He attended Louisiana State University and Northwestern State University. After serving in the United States Army from 1964-1966, Ernest was an insurance agency manager and then worked in public relations for oilfield sales. Following his father’s footsteps, Ernest entered into public service in 1984 when he was elected Sheriff of Plaquemines Parish and served two terms. As Sheriff, he was known for his no-nonsense leadership and independent activism. As an advocate of the Second Amendment, he founded the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff's Office Shooting Range/Junior Deputy Grounds in Myrtle Grove. He was also a strong supporter of the Special Olympics and was instrumental in coordinating a state-wide torch run and establishing the games in Plaquemines Parish in 1985. In 1999, Ernest was elected Louisiana State Representative and served three terms. As a former Sheriff, husband of a retired school teacher, and resident of Plaquemines Parish, he adamantly supported law enforcement, education, and coastal restoration. While representing the 105th District, Ernest served as Chairman of the House Committee on Administration of Criminal Justice, Vice-Chairman of the Environment Committee, and member of the House Committee on Homeland Security and the Joint Committee on Homeland Security. He was inducted into the Louisiana Justice Hall of Fame in 2011. He was also a member of the American Legion, Knights of Columbus, and Alcoholics Anonymous. In his public life, Ernest had an uncanny ability to connect with people from all walks of life. With his charismatic personality, impressive stature, and handsome features, he could command a room unlike anyone else. He was loyal to his convictions and inspired others to think beyond their conventional beliefs. With his exemplary contributions, he upheld an uncompromising endeavor to improve the welfare of his constituents in Plaquemines, Jefferson, and St. Charles Parishes. Ernest’s generous and effective way of dedicating his intelligence and energy was admired throughout the state of Louisiana. In his private life, Ernest was a Christian and a true family man. As a Man of Manresa, he was thankful for his blessings and embraced his flaws. Through his faith and family, he overcame numerous personal and professional challenges and always prevailed as a better man. Of all of his accomplishments in life, Ernest was most proud of his sobriety. His heart also overflowed with love for his family, and he cherished the times he spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandson, Ace. Whether it was a ball game, an award ceremony, or a graduation, “Daddy” or “PawPaw” was always present and proud. He left his mark of humor and wit on his family and friends, and even in his final hours, Ernest made people laugh. In life, he was a force to be reckoned with, and in death he will remain an inspiration to everyone who was lucky enough to have crossed his path. A Walkthrough Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 4, 2020 from 10:00 AM until 12:30 PM followed by a PRIVATE Funeral Mass at 1:00 PM, all at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 8968 LA-23, Belle Chasse, LA Friends and family are invited to pay their respects while maintaining social distance and wearing a face mask. Interment will follow at OLPH Church Cemetery, Belle Chasse, LA. As an Alcoholics Anonymous member who was sober for the past 27 years, Ernest requested that donations be made to Bridge House, 4150 Earhart Boulevard, New Orleans, LA 70125, so that others might also conquer their addictions. Mothe Funeral Home, 2100 Westbank Expressway, Harvey, LA.