Ernest Rankin Fite (September 1, 1916 – November 6, 1980) was an Alabama state legislator and attorney.

[2] Fite graduated from the University of Alabama with a LL.B degree in 1939 and joined his family firm after being admitted to the bar.

[1] During his time in the house, he sought improvements to his hometown of Hamilton, revamping streets and sewer systems.

[4] On February 16, 1968, Fite, then Speaker of the House, placed the ceremonial first 9-1-1 call from the town of Haleyville at the invitation of the Alabama Telephone Company.

Former governor George C. Wallace commented that "[today was] truly a sad day, as we experience the loss of a man who in legislative circles had already become a legend".