Ernest DeLaney Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Aug. 10, 2017.

Charlotte, NC - Ernest S. "Mike" DeLaney, 69, passed away on August 7, 2017, at Baptist Hospital in Winston-Salem. Mike was born in Charlotte on May 21, 1948, to Patricia Keegan DeLaney and Ernest S. DeLaney, Jr. Mike attended local public schools, graduating from Myers Park High School in 1966, and going on to Duke University from which he graduated with honors in 1970. Mike went to law school at the University of North Carolina where he was an Associate Editor of the Law Review, and where he met and married his wife, Barbara.

After graduation, Mike and Barbara settled in Charlotte where Mike went to work for his father's law firm. A number of years later, Mike and Tim Sellers started a new law firm, DeLaney and Sellers. In 1999, Mike joined Moore and Van Allen where he practiced law until his death.

Mike had an ebullient spirit, an infectious smile, and a kind and gentle manner that people remembered. He mentored a number of young attorneys in his career, and they became an extended family to him. But of all the people whose lives Mike impacted, none was more important to him than his wife and children. Mike was never too busy to spend time with his family, to listen to a problem or concern, to offer sage advice, or to crack a joke. A dry wit was his trademark.

Mike loved to play tennis, to hike in the North Carolina mountains, to kayak on the rivers of his adopted home, Sarasota, Florida, and to bike whenever the opportunity presented itself. He was a diehard Duke Basketball fan who obsessively supported the team through every high and low.

Mike is survived by his wife, Barbara; son Stan; son David and wife, Nicole, and their children, Riley and Colin; and son Matt and wife, Sarah.

The service to honor Mike's life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, August 14, 2017, at Providence Baptist Church, 4921 Randolph Road, Charlotte, with Reverend David Jordan officiating. The family will receive friends in the church Rotunda following the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Nucor Scholarship Fund, c/o the Nucor Foundation, 1915 Rexford Road, Charlotte, NC 28211.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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August 4, 2021

Friend

Nancy Bowen Wiggins

Still remember my schoolmate Mike-at Sharon, Cotswold, & Myers Park. He assisted some of my clients in their real estate transactions . My Blessings to his families: sister Patty; wife Barbara; sons Stan,David & Matt & their families. Thank you for sharing him with us all.

August 31, 2017

Barbara, We just heard about Mike. We are so sorrycan't believe it.

Love you,
Sue and David Jones

August 31, 2017

Barb, we are heartbroken to hear that we shall not see Mike again. I have always thought of him as a friend that I would like to have spent more time with but really enjoyed the times that we did have together.

I wish you and the family well and hope that we shall not lose touch.

And for all those candles in all those churches that you will recall us lighting on our trips together, Mike will now be included in our Remembrances and Prayers.

Our love to you,
Ed Harshfield

August 31, 2017

Barbara, Billy Moore called me this morning with the news of Mike passing. I didn't know that Mike had been battling cancer or the most recent problems with his port and his infections.

I want you to know that Mike was one of the most wonderful people I ever knew. He was a most trusted friend and advisor and helped me in so many ways. I still remember our trip to the USOpen together with you and Mike and the good times we had. In the history of Nucor Mike will be remembered, by those who know, as one of the most important people to the Company and all those who ever worked for Nucor.

Debby and I are so saddened by this and offer you and your family all of our prayers. I plan to come to the memorial on Monday to convey my best wishes to you personally.

Take care,
Joseph Rutkowski

August 31, 2017

Hello, Barbara. I am so sad about Mike. Debbie and I had talked with you all at our 50th MPHS 1966 Reunion about going out to dinner in Blowing Rock; I wish we had gotten that done!

At an appropriate time in the intermediate-term future, I will call you and Debbie and I would love to visit with you.

I enjoyed visiting with Mike at the City Club Bullpen for lunch over the years.

Bill Farthing told me of Mike's passing and I sent the news out to the class as well as posted it on our Facebook page. Many folks have responded with their condolences---to me, or on the FB page-----one in particular from Peter De Vido in Argentina asked me to share so please see below.

Debbie and I send our sincerest condolences.

Sadler Barnhardt

August 31, 2017

Hey my sweet friend -- Jimmy and I are so very sad to hear of Mike's passing! Know that we are praying for you and yours -- for the peace and comfort only God can provide. I feel so blessed to have been your partner with our precious little ones at CBS - what a good year we had, and what sweet memories I have of that time. Hope I'll get to hug you at the service on Monday! Love you -- Laura

August 31, 2017

Barbara,

You probably do not remember me, but I recently retired from Nucor. My husband Bob and I met you a couple of times at church.

I just heard about Mike and wanted to express my deepest sympathy to you and your family. Mike was a good man. I always enjoyed chatting and talking junk about UNC / Duke basketball with him. He will be deeply missed by so many people. That is until we all meet again in heaven.

Prayers and love to you and your family,
Dianne Short

August 31, 2017

Oh, Barbara. Our hearts are breaking over and over and over. This dreadful news can't be true.

Mike was so frail when we went to church and ate lunch together at the BR Cafe. You said he wasn't doing well, but there he was, obviously determined to carry on his schedule as usual. Anybody else would have been lying in bed weeks ago. But not Mike.

You were the devoted wife, Barbara, always positive and encouraging and lifting him up in a way no other person could. We loved seeing you two together...treating each other like royalty, teasing each other like teenagers, discussing topics like MENSA giants, and loving each each other like movie stars!!!

We love you both and can't stop thinking about the unforgettable times we shared together.

We will be there for Mike's service...but even typing those words breaks my heart all over again.

Babs and Sam

August 31, 2017

Dear Barbara,

The Obituary is perfect. I hear your voice in every word. I can see that it is a great comfort for you to have your

family there. They are all so capable, a handsome group.

I apologize for hanging around much too long yesterday. I guess I was so focused on being there for you. You actually

have great help with your boys THERE. Everything is being done correctly. Mike is proud.

Love, Claudia

August 31, 2017

Barb,

Besides the birth of my three kids and my marriage to Joanna (which you and Mike witnessed!), it will be the honor of my life. We will be there, and we will never be able to put into words how honored we are.

And there is never a need to apologize to me for any brain fog I've been amazed by how strong you have been through all of this. I know why Mike had to marry you before you got away (Mike's words about you years ago to me.)

I appreciate the 5 minutes as well I probably have 25 minutes of material right now (and as you know, I could talk for hours about Mike and all the stories we all have), but Mike would also want short, sweet, and full of meat! (Mike was always a believer in less is more). And if anything, I need to be the shortest in speaking!

In the event you, Stan, David, Matt or anybody needs anything from or done in Charlotte between now and Monday, please let us know. Also, I offer up my DeLaney suite at the house to any of the boys and their families if you need it. Seriously. I have affectionately called it the DeLaney suite for some time, and you'll certainly need to come visit one day soon. There is plenty of room.

Be safe headed into Charlotte, and we will see you on Monday around Noon at the Church.

LOVE,

Ben

Benjamin M. Pickett
Attorney at Law
T 704.331.3649
F 704.409.5622
[email protected]

August 31, 2017

Just a little note to say I am thinking of you all and hoping that you are comforted by each other's presence and wonderful memories and stories of Mike.

As I hear from more and more people who are expressing their condolences I realize once again what a wonderful person and brother Mike has been. I wish so much that we had been able to do more together in our adult lives and probably too during our childhood too. I would have liked to have relished the pleasure of his company and of course yours too, even more often than I did.

I hope you each know that we embrace and include you in our family group and look forward to celebrating with you the days ahead with memories of Mike in our midst.

I will see you Monday. Please let me know if I can do anything for you.

Lots of love,

Patty

August 31, 2017

Hi Barbara,

I know that it has been such a difficult time for you and the boys this week as plans were being made for Mike to move out of the hospital and on to rehab at the Foley Center. Then a pivot and he was gone too soon.

He gave it his all and wanted so much to recover and be with you and the family. I am having a difficult time wrapping my head around all of this as I was so hopeful for his recovery as well.

I loved your words about him, such a kind and loving man, and principled in everything he did. I am so grateful that you have been in his life for 45 years or longer. He is deeply loved and will be missed by many.

Jim and I will be coming to the service on Monday and look forward to hugging you and the kids then. Until then know that you are in our prayers and surrounded by love.

Much love,
Susan

August 31, 2017

The service today was incredibly personal and heartfelt and I will remember it forever. The pictures the boys painted of the relationship each had with their Dad was so touching. Every father in the church was probably thinking, "I hope my sons remember me like these boys remember their dad, Mike."

The music was my favorite...I can't get through Great Is Thy Faithfulness without crying. And the soloist was exceptional. (I didn't know you and Mike took Shag lessons until today!!) I loved the way the preacher used your dancing as a metaphor for your relationship with Mike and with Jesus!

But MOST of all I loved the boys talks!! That preacher had THREE very difficult acts to follow!! Your boys adored their Dad and it was crystal clear. You and Mike did an outstanding job raising these brilliant, HILARIOUS, and loving sons. I'm so glad we know them!!

I'm praying for you and all three of them tonight. They love their MOM as much as they adored their Dad!! What a very special family. You did well!
Babs

August 31, 2017

Barb:

I just wanted to let you know that Lauran and I thought the service yesterday was a wonderful tribute to Mike and to your family. Stan, David and Matt did a great job, and one of the things I told Lauran last night was that I thought each of their respective remarks perfectly reflected their personalities and relationships with Mike.

I know you spoke with so many folks yesterday, but I also wanted to let you know that Bill Braithwaite flew down from Toronto for the service. He really wanted to have a few moments to chat with you, but was unable to before he had to leave for his return flight, so he asked me to pass on his condolences. I spoke with Bill for a few minutes before he had to leave, and he remarked several times about how much he respected Mike as a colleague and friend, and that he always considered Mike to be a true gentleman.

Thanks also for inviting Lauran and me to spend time and sit with the family at the service. It was an honor. Mike meant a great deal to so many, and to me he was a unique combination of mentor/big brother/father figure who had such an amazingly positive impact on my life in so many ways. For that I will always be appreciative, and he will not be forgotten or replaced.

If there is anything Lauran or I can do to help out in any way during this difficult time, please let us know.

Jeremy

August 31, 2017

Dear Barbara,

We are so glad you have some difficult days behind you. I must say that Providence Baptist served you well; the music was lovely and the minister's Eulogy really spoke about Mike. Your boys spoke so well about their father, his idiosyncrasies and what a fine man he was.

The love came through.

We are thinking about you and the difficult time ahead. We want to be helpful not intrusive. I am thinking you could sleep for a month. I am available for nursery treks, long walks, silly movies, whatever.

Please put us on speed dial and please share our contact numbers with the boys and their partners.

Claudia and Wes Sturges

Blowing Rock 828 295 9331
Charlotte 704 366 5208

Claudia cell704 591 8095
Wes cell704 574 9928

I am going to Charlotte today and Cashiers Sat thru Aug 22.

Blowing Rock Aug 22 thru 28, Charlotte Aug 29 thru 31

We are in BR for Labor Day, Back to Charlotte for Mint Pottery Sale, Sat, Sept 9

Back and forth..appointments and stuffGoing to visit Garrik and Dare in SF; Sept 27 thru October 3..

I am soooo confused.

Take good care of yourself.

Love, Claudia and Wes

August 31, 2017

Dear Barbara

I wanted to let you know that Jim and I were so touched by Mike's Memorial Service yesterday. We realized that we just didn't have enough time to get to know him better so we could have seen the humorous side that everyone referenced. Your son's comments were so touching and showed how much they appreciated both his serious and funny sides.

We had hoped to slip in to the receiving to see you, but you and your family were inundated with greetings from many. Hopefully, as you get into a better groove with life, we will have an opportunity to touch base and get caught up on how things are going. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help you during this transitional time.

Keeping you and your family in our prayersPlease keep us updated on how your life is evolving!

JoAnne

Jo Anne W. Murray, Ed.D.
Director of Faculty Development and Continuing Education
East Carolina University School of Dental Medicine
Mail Stop 701, Ross Hall 3206 B
1851 MacGregor Downs Road
Greenville, NC 27858-4354
Direct: (252) 737-7074
Fax: (252) 737-7049
[email protected]
http://www.ecu.edu/cs-dhs/dentist

August 24, 2017

Kent Brown

We only learned of Mike's passing this morning as we have been out of town on vacation. Jamie and I are very sorry we missed the celebration of Mike's life and an opportunity to express our sorrow in person. Mike was a great guy and loved his family so much. We will all miss him.
Kent and Jamie

August 22, 2017

Jean Winborne Boyles

I was so shocked to read of Mike's death. He was a dear friend of Section A. Barbara I am so sorry for your loss and you and your family are in my prayers. Jean Winborne Boyles

August 19, 2017

Eric Kerwood

Stan and family- I'm so very sorry for your loss. From all the time I have spent with Stan over the years, he had such love and admiration for his Dad. I'm disappointed that I never got to meet this amazing man, but I'm sure much of Stan's awesomeness comes from him and will continue to shine through him and the rest of your family every day. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.

August 15, 2017

Evelena Thompson

My Dearest Friend Barbara,

My heart aches with you and your family as you
Mourn the loss of your Beloved Husband! As I
remember Mike, I think of his kindness to me
And especially a few times I visited your lovely
home!!!

I will NEVER forget the love and encouragement
You showed me during the loss of my Son and my
Husband. You were a true blessing to me!!. My
Deepest sympathy and my Prayers are with you
always!

August 15, 2017

Maria Hardin

Barbara and all, I am so very sorry for your loss. The Hardin Family has you in their thoughts.

Maria Hardin

August 14, 2017

Dee Dee & Steve Leeolou

Barb and Family, We were so saddened and shocked to hear of Mike's passing. Please know that you are all in our prayers and I will be in touch with you soon.

August 14, 2017

Terry Lyons

Dear Barbara, I am so sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I love both of you so much. I bet Ed was one of the first to meet him at the pearly gates. I will be keeping you and the boys in my prayers.

August 14, 2017

Nancy Wiggins

To the Delaney Family-
My sincere condolences to you Barbara and the children and their families. I have known Mike since 3rd Grade at Cotswold Elementary, graduated MPHS'66 together and he served my real estate clients witht he utmost professionalism. Mike converted me to a Democrat when JFK ran. He has always been a "gentle giant" and a principled person, with that signature grin and great sense of humor. He will be missed & always remembered.
Nancy Bowen Wiggins

August 14, 2017

Dear Barbara and Family:
We send our sympathy and prayers. We'll always remember all the good times that we had playing tennis and socializing with you and Mike
Love, Carter and Frances Alden.

August 13, 2017

Maxine Yelton

Barbara,
I am heartbroken for you, the Boys and their families. I always enjoyed Mike's smiling face and dry sense of humor when he stopped by our office in the courthouse. If there is anything I can do for you, I hope you'll call on me.

August 13, 2017

Sharon Bullard

Dear Barbara and family,
I was so sorry to hear of Mike's passing. My heart goes out to your family now and during the weeks ahead. I will keep you in my prayers.
Sharon Bullard

August 13, 2017

Dear Barbara,
Words cannot adequately tell you how saddened we all are over the passing of Mike. Memory Road is rife with thoughts of Easter holidays, ski and ocean trips, as well as our times just hanging out together.
Cathy Hardin Penson

August 13, 2017

Mike Parrish

Dear Delaney Family,

I was saddened and shocked to hear about Mike's passing. I worked with Mike at Nucor and he was a great attorney but an even better man. He taught me so much and was a huge part of our success at Nucor. He will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him.

My sympathies go out to all of you and I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

Sincerely,
Mike Parrish

August 12, 2017

Ann Wood

Dear, wonderful DeLaney family. Mike was truly a remarkable man with a loving and accomplished family. Spent many happy hours with all of you, and for that, am so grateful. The world is a better place because of Mikes, and your acts of generosity, love and kindness.

August 12, 2017

Glenda Arbis

Dear David, Nicole and family. Although we only met your Mr. Delaney once, he made quite a lasting impression on us. My impression was of quiet strength, and the sense that he would be there for anyone in need. Our sympathies go out to you for your loss of such a pillar of strength. We wish you good memories, love and laughter to balance the sadness at this time. Love to you all. Glenda and Nar Arbis

August 12, 2017

Grace/Richard Wilson

Barbara,
Richard and I were so sad to learn of Mike's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We will be at Providence Baptist to say our good byes.

August 11, 2017

JE Jackson

May God strengthen and comfort you during this difficult time. Please accept my sincere condolences.

August 11, 2017

I am truly saddened by the loss of a good friend and colleague. Barbara, my thoughts and prayers are with your family and you...

Steve Hockfield

August 10, 2017

We are so saddened by your loss. Love and prayers to your family. Truly a special man.

Clifton and Donna Hastings (Gainesville, GA)

August 10, 2017

Elizabeth Waller

Many prayers and much love to the DeLaney family. Mr. DeLaney was such a special man to so many and what a wonderful legacy he has shared with us.
Love, JJ and Elizabeth Waller

August 10, 2017

Nancy & Ted Clontz

Barbara, We are so saddened to hear of Mike's passing and our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We will always have fond memories of our tennis/dinner dates with you and Mike. In sympathy, Nancy and Ted Clontz

August 10, 2017

jim slone

My wife Norma and I met Mike and Barbara on a trip to Ireland a few years ago...Norma says she remembers Mike as real,charming and unpretentious..I agree..Wish I had gotten to know him better but we did share emails from time to time..I am so sorry that he has passed...and sad for his family.. Jim Slone Tucson

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Aug

14

Visitation

Providence Baptist Church

4921 Randolph Road, Charlotte, NC

Aug

14

Service

1:00 p.m.

Providence Baptist Church

4921 Randolph Road, Charlotte, NC

Funeral services provided by:

CLOSED-McEwen Funeral Home & Cremation @ Myers Park

500 Providence Road, Charlotte, NC 28207

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