Ernest Patterson King was born in 1921 in White Springs Florida. He was educated in the Broward County Florida Public School System. He received his upholsterers certification in the New Jersey School System. He worked for the Atlantic Vocational Center, Boward County School system as Vocational Instructor in upholstery until he retired in 1983, but he continued to work in upholstery.

Ernest was also known for his golfing skills. He was recognized for his persistent efforts to provide first class golf outlets for Blacks in Broward County and throughout the Southeast. Under his leadership, the Palmview Golf Association in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and the Sunshine State Golf Association were created. He also established golf organizations in Alabama and Georgia. His persistence to encourage golf in the black community prompted the city of Fort Lauderdale to donate money for a golf facility to be built at Osswald park.

Due to his efforts to promote and encourage golf in the Black community, Ernest was inducted to the National Black Golf Hall of Fame in 2000.