Ernest H. Wallick was born January 15, 1928 to John H. Wallick and Odessa Crider in Huntingdon, Tennessee. Upon completion of high school, he attended Tennessee A & I State University where he earned a double Bachelor Degree in Agricultural Education and Agronomy, and Michigan State University where he earned his Master's Degree in Land and Water Conservation. A man of many talents, he completed course work toward the Ph.D. Degree at Michigan State University and studied public personnel administration at Wayne State University.

A former teacher and United States Army Veteran serving during the Korean War, Ernest was employed by General Motors Corp, the United States Post Office and Michigan State University before entering the state classified service as a social worker in Wayne County. He joined the Michigan Department of Civil Service in 1967 and retired with over 40 years of service.

Ernest was a well-respected man and exemplified himself as one of a few individuals where service, integrity, and professionalism constituted as a way of life. He was known as a gentle man who committed himself to working on behalf of those less fortunate and often discriminated against and is known as the Father of Affirmative Action in Michigan State Government. The development of the policies and procedures he developed and fought for, resulted in the hiring and promoting of thousands of minorities and women in state government and other areas of Michigan employment, education and all walks of life.  This work resulted in the state of Michigan gaining national recognition for developing a workforce that was representative of all citizens of the state of Michigan.  Ernest was greatly regarded in his professional life and in November 1979 due to the outstanding work and the magnitude of changes that resulted from this work he performed, he was recognized and awarded with The Ernest H. Wallick Day in the State of Michigan.

Over his lifetime, he made many achievements. Ernest received numerous awards, tributes and resolutions which are a true testimony to the works he performed. While Ernest's achievements in life were numerous, he will mainly be remembered as a man of God who loved all and will be forever loved by all.

Ernest was united in matrimony to Jean Allen and was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather and family man, affectionately known as, Pops, Grand Pap and recently as Boss. He was a faithful and dedicated member of Trinity A.M.E. Church where he served as a trustee, treasurer, and on various other committees.  One of his greatest joys after retiring was his ability to work daily at Trinity A. M. E. If he had slipped away without saying a word, his family knew where to find him.

Due to failing health, Ernest was not able to remain actively involved, however, he has served as a member of several organizations, such as Alpha Phi Alpha, the National Urban League, Alpha Chi Boule and a life member of the NAACP to name a few. He had a love of sports and was a dedicated Michigan State basketball and football fan.

The name of Ernest H. Wallick is one which commands respect from all. He was a soft spoken, sweet, and gentle man who made sure you heard his voice but his mere presence in a room was evident of the man he was.

Ernest was preceded in death by: his father, John H. Wallick; mother, Odessa Branch; sister, Alice I. Carter; brother, Ivan O. Pearson; and daughter, Claudia Barkley

On June 4, 2019, Ernest heard the call from heaven and gently left this earth. He leaves to cherish his memory and remain in the hearts of his loving and devoted wife, Jean; his son, John (Jacque); grandchildren, Ernest, John II, Jenae' (Arthur); great grandchildren, Kasar, Timothy, Arthur IV; brother, Clarence Branch Jr.; sisters, Brooxie L. Fentress (Thomas) and Virginia A. Maple; sister-in-law, Anna Mae Harris; special friend, Mr. Charles Blockett; his church family, a host of family and friends.  Although he has left this earth, Ernest will never be forgotten.  May the works he's done speak for him.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.rileyfuneralhome.com