Gerald R. Ernest Obituary (1945 - 2011)

Gerald R. Ernest, 65, of Decatur, IL died at 6:00 pm Thursday, January 27, 2011 at his residence. He was born August 7, 1945 in Joliet, IL the son of Gerald R. and Theresa J. Kure Ernest, Sr. On August 21, 1976 he married Beverly Jean Walsh in Joliet, IL and she preceded him in death on November 23, 2010. Mr. Ernest was a licensed funeral director and embalmer. He owned and operated Prairieland Mortuary Service in Decatur, and was currently employed by the Macon County Coroner's Office and the McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville. Jerry was a member of St. Thomas Catholic Church in Decatur and the Knights of Columbus Council 577. Jerry was an avid Illini fan who loved his family and especially his grandchildren. Surviving are his sons: Timothy Dallavia and fiancee Charlene Pastor and James Dallavia all of Joliet. 3 daughters: Kimberly Dallavia and Jaime Johnson and husband Chad all of Murfreesboro, TN and Lynette Dallavia of Joliet. Mother: Theresa Ernest of Joliet Grandchildren: Ashton Dallavia, Taylor Bond, Kiersten Johnson, Kyler Johnson, Karter Johnson, and Zachary Dallavia. Brother: Kenneth Ernest and wife Debra of Channahon, IL and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father and wife. Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 pm Monday at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Decatur. Visitation will be held from 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Sunday, January 30, 2011 at McClure Funeral Home, Taylorville. Burial will take place at a later date in Woodlawn Memorial Park in Joliet. Memorials may be made to: Kiersten Johnson Benefit Fund, C/O Lynette Dallavia, 3569 Pandola, Joliet, IL 60431.