Ernest "Ernie" Fulford, the "real" Popa, of North Little Rock passed away Thursday, June 26, 2014. He was a veteran and fought in the South Pacific during World War II. Later, he retired from the NLR Electric Department and the NLR School District. He graduated from Pulaski Technical College with honors at the age of 77.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Sarah Fulford; his wife of over 60 years, Faye Fulford; son, Van "Bear" Fulford; brothers, Paul, TJ, and Kennith; sisters, Bea and Juanise; and great-granddaughter, Abbey Dudley. He is survived by his daughter, Margie Dudley (Owen); grandsons, Michael Dudley (Leslie) and Robert Ernest Dudley (Brittney); great-grandchildren, Mack and Emma; his sisters-in-law, Fleda Virden, Sue Duval, Shirley Harrison (Rick), and Peggy Fulford; our loving friend, Linda Tenison; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday at North Little Rock Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m., Thursday at the funeral home. Burial will be in Rest Hills Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Remount Baptist Church or the Abbey Michelle Dudley Memorial Fund NICU at Baptist Hospital, 9601 Interstate 630, Exit 7, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205-7299. Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.

Published July 1, 2014