Ernestine Hibbitts

Ernestine Hibbitts, passed away on July 4, 2025, in Bristol, Virginia, at the age of 76. Born on October 28, 1948, in Dickenson County, Virginia, to the late Ernest Branham and Evon Fleming Branham. Ernestine's journey through life was marked by kindness, warmth, and a welcoming spirit that endeared her to all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Ernestine graduated from Clintwood High School, laying a firm foundation for a career that would span three decades. She devoted herself to her work at Appalachian Electric Power for 30 years, where she was admired not only for her dedication but also for her personable nature that created a positive work environment.

In addition to her parents, Ernestine was preceded in death by her daughter, Pamela Sue Gibson, and her brothers, Bobby Branham and Harold Gene Branham.

Over her lifetime, Ernestine forged strong bonds and was known for making others feel at ease. Her legacy of kindness extended beyond her professional life and into her family, where she was a pillar of love and support. She is survived by her loving husband, Darrell Hibbitts, with whom she shared 54 wonderful years of marriage. She also leaves behind her cherished grandson, Jarrod Wayne Thomas, who brought her immense joy.

Ernestine's family included her dear siblings, Larry Branham and his wife, Billie; sisters Sue Horton and her husband, Buddy and Carolyn Swindell and her husband, Robert, who along with other family members and friends will continue to honor her memory.

Visitation services for Ernestine will be held on Friday, July 11, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Farris Cremation & Funeral Center – Forest Hills Chapel in Abingdon, Virginia. A funeral service will follow the visitation at 2:00 PM, with Pastor Frank Hall officiating. The burial will follow at Forest Hills Memory Gardens, with family and friends serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Jarrod Thomas, Buddy Horton, Robert Swindell, Larry Branham, and Benny Smith.

The family would like to express their thanks to Sabrina Clevenger and Angel's Care Hospice for the wonderful care provided to Ernestine.