Colonel (Retired) Ernest Wayne Underwood, 79, of Oxford, Georgia, passed away on the 12th of March, 2024 shortly after contracting COVID.

Wayne was born on November 30th, 1944 to Ernest and Frances Underwood at their family home in Porterdale, Georgia.  After Wayne graduated from Newton County High School in 1962, he married his high school sweetheart Peggie Parker in 1964.  Drafted into the U.S. Army in 1966, and went on to serve his country for 24 years, retiring as a Colonel in 1990.

Wayne, a venerable husband, father, grandfather, Army helicopter pilot, Signal Officer, and decorated war hero, passed away surrounded by his loving family. He is fondly remembered for his unwavering integrity, steadfast dedication, and exemplary service to his country.

Wayne’s illustrious military career, spanning 24 years, was marked by combat in Vietnam, overseas deployments in Germany and Korea, and numerous stateside tours.

As a valiant participant in the Vietnam War, Wayne piloted helicopters through countless missions embodying courage and commitment. His exceptional service earned him a distinguished array of 36 awards, including 20 Air Medals for valorous conduct, two Bronze Stars for bravery, three Meritorious Service Awards in recognition of his outstanding achievements, and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry. The Vietnam Cross bestowed upon Wayne three times for acts of valor and gallantry during combat.

Even more impressive than his military achievements was his role as a husband, father and grandfather.  Never asking for anything in return, his unassuming efforts to raise his family was an example for all to witness. Wayne's greatest pride and joy was his family. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Peggie Underwood, cherishing nearly 60 years of marriage which he proclaimed as his most significant accomplishment. Together they raised three sons; Ron, Chris, and Clint, instilling in them the values of honor, duty, and integrity.  His remarkable legacy of courage and steadfast dedication to honesty and discipline will, undoubtedly, be carried forward by his boys and nine adored grandchildren; Kio, Mei, Andrew, Guy, Brodie, Adde, Ande, Elli Rae, and Emmi Lou.

Colonel Underwood’s life was a beacon of exemplary duty, honorable service, and unwavering integrity. He was a loving father, a dedicated husband, and a man who could always be counted on to selflessly help others without exception. He is survived by his loving wife, Peggie, his three sons, two daughters-in-law, Kim and Yuko and nine grandchildren.  His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched, serving as an enduring inspiration to all.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to veterans’ support organizations, continuing Wayne’s legacy of service and support to those who have served selflessly.

Colonel Ernest Wayne Underwood will be memorialized with full military honors, a fitting tribute to a true American hero.  His family invites all whose lives he touched to join a brief presentation of military honors at one o'clock (EST), 20th of March, 2024 at the J.C. Harwell & Son Funeral Home.

2157 East Street, Covington, Ga 30014