Ernest Silvio Spignardo

Ernest Silvio Spignardo, 72, of Daniel Island, South Carolina, husband of Diane Ciofalo Spignardo died Monday, February 19, 2018 after a brave battle with cancer.

Ernest was born July 29, 1945 in Newburgh, New York, son of the late Pasquale "Patsy" Spignardo and the late Elizabeth Pesavento Spignardo. He received his B.A. in Education at Fredonia State University of New York and earned a Master's degree in Education from State University of New York at New Paltz, and a Master's degree in Counseling from Adelphi University. Throughout his life he was an educator, counselor and entrepreneur. He was a supportive mentor for cancer patients and was a volunteer for three years at Charleston Hematology and Oncology Center guiding cancer patients through their treatments. He was instrumental in forming the Parkinson Rock Steady Boxing Exercise Program at Gritbox Fitness which serves over 60 Parkinson patients. He had many interests including playing the trumpet and keyboard in a rock band for 45 years, traveling, hiking and was an exceptional cook whose guests enjoyed his Italian feasts. He was an avid fisherman and a dedicated golfer and was a member of Dunes West Country Club. Ernie was an amateur comedian who was the life of every party!

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Diane C. Spignardo of Daniel Island, SC; two sons, Todd Spignardo (Barbara Anne "B.A.") of Falls Church, VA and Scott Spignardo (Terra) of Daniel Island, SC; one brother, Joseph Spignardo (Shirley) of Knoxville, TN; Aunt Dorothy Spignardo of New Windsor, NY; Uncle Desmond McLoughlin of Evanston, IL. He was Poppi to five beautiful grandchildren, Bella - 12, Michael - 12, Calla - 10, Matthew - 10 and Desmond - 9, who were the love of his life. His large extended family includes many cousins, nieces, nephews and many friends who he considered family as well.

Ernie was the quintessential friend, who never ceased to make people feel loved. He spread smiles and belly laughs throughout his life despite three very serious cancer diagnoses and Parkinson's disease. He courageously fought the best fight with optimism and determination with his true love Diane always by his side. He never gave up and consequently was referred to as the "Poster Boy" of beating the unbeatable. Ernie touched everyone's life and we are blessed to have had him in our lives. We shall forever hold him dear in our hearts.

Visitation with the family will be held Saturday, February 24, 2018 at J. Henry Stuhr, Inc. Mount Pleasant Chapel, 1494 Mathis Ferry Road from 2:00 until 4:00 pm.

Memorials in Ernie's name may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, Grand Central Station, P.O. Box 4777, New York, NY 10163-4777.