John Ernest Steifle

John Ernest Steifle, 85, of Pelzer, South Carolina, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, October 16, 2026 with his loving wife, Lori, by his side. Ernest loved his wife, children, and grandchildren dearly. He was a hardworking man who always made sure his family was well cared for. He also greatly enjoyed working alongside his childhood friend, Barry Boggero.

Ernest proudly served in the United States Army, achieving the rank of sergeant (E-5). He was deployed to Vietnam from March 1, 1966 through January 16, 1968.

One of Ernest's greatest passions was dirt track racing. He began his racing career in 1962 and it ended in 2013. Winning races at twenty-eight different racetracks, it can easily be said that he won more than 600 races throughout his racing career. He treasured the memories he made racing for W.M. Fulmer, Billy Robinson, Dink Montgomery, and Sandy Wheeler.

Ernest was preceded in death by his parents, Oza and Frances Chiles Steifle; his sister, Eleanor Steifle Lomax; his son-in-law, David Wilson; and his infant granddaughter, Isabel Walton.

He is survived by his wife of twenty-five years, Lori Steifle, and his children, Eric Steifle (Erica), Lisa Calliham, Candie Edwards (Ben), Angie Hunt (Tony), and Chaney Wilson. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Reghan Steifle, Christian Marler (Ashley), Cason Calliham, Kaylee Calliham, John Walton, Mary-Jade Walton, Skyla Edwards, Grayson Edwards, Andy Hunt (Erin), Adam Hunt (Cally), Marc Hunt (Candi), Jonathan Wilson (Marissa), and Walter Wilson (Rhianna), as well as five great-grandchildren.

The pallbearers for Ernest's service will be Christian Marler, John Walton, Claude Roundtree, Jeff Minor, Sandy Wheeler, Dink Montgomery, Keith Pilgrim, Bill Morgan, Scott Morgan, Cason Calliham, and Talley Nickles.

Officiating Ernest's service will be Pastor Walter Wilson.