Ernest Gonzales

Ernest Garcia Gonzales died peacefully at his home in Turtletown, July 7, 2022; he was 74 years old.

Ernest was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Teresa Gonzales and his daughter Iris Gonzales.

He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Marshia Gonzales; children, Irma Mata (Amado), David Rolen (Naomi), Melissa Dilbeck (Tim); siblings, Esther Delarosa (Ramon), Elizabeth Sanchez (Andrew), Emily Garcia (Jasper); grandchildren, Amado Ray Mata, Aaron Mata, Adrian Mata, Cameron Mata, Evione Gonzales, Jauslyn Gonzales, Kelsey Smith (Seth), Brittany Sherbert, Drew Sherbert, Emily Bailey (Levi), Jake Dilbeck (Caroline), and Cole Dilbeck; and great grandchildren, Zayne Mata, Roman Mata, Kaleb Mata, Scarlett Mata, Ryder Sherbet, Renley Sherbert, Colton Smith, and Tate Dilbeck.

Ernest G. Gonzales was born June 24, 1948, in Palacios, Texas. He worked for the Palacios Independent School District up until 2006.

Ernest and his wife, Marshia, moved to the Copper Basin area in early 2007. They would travel back to Texas for several years in late summer into early fall, where Ernest drove trucks to bring in the cotton harvest for the Farmers’ Gin in Palacios.  Prior to his death, Ernest drove a school bus for the Copper Basin schools. Ernest’s true passions were loving Christ, family, children and the community.  He loved serving the Lord and singing Gospel Music. Ernest was an encouraging mentor to youth in the Copper Basin and Palacios communities. The only thing more contagious than his smile, was his laugh.  To know him, was to love him, as he loved with all of his heart. Ernest will truly be missed by many.

“For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

The family will host a celebration of life service for Ernest G. Gonzales, Saturday, July 23, 2022 at Mine City Baptist Church, 135 Main Street, Ducktown, 37326 with  the Rev. Charles Hodges officiating.

Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. with the service starting at 2 p.m.  All family and friends are invited to join in the celebration of Ernest’s life.

The following gentlemen have been selected to serve as honorary pallbearers: Danny (Red) Dilbeck, Doug Dilbeck, Marvin Rose, Bill Malone, Ben Garland, Tim Dilbeck, David Rolen, Jake Dilbeck, Cole Dilbeck, Dwight Dilbeck and Luke Dillard.

Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.akinsfuneralhome.com.