2 Timothy 4:7 "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."
Ernest served in the armed forces. We honor that service here.
Our beloved husband, daddy, granddaddy, brother, and friend gained his heavenly wings on December 15, 2023, at St. Thomas Midtown in Nashville, TN, surrounded by the love of his family. Ernie was a true embodiment of a blue-collar hero— a man who pulled himself up by his bootstraps, a "huckleberry," and a ride-or-die spirit who worked tirelessly to provide for those he loved. His life was a testament to hard work, resilience, and unwavering faith.
Ernie was a man of strong will and unwavering character, inspired by his mother’s example of strength and perseverance. He was a proud, no-nonsense man who could also light up a room with his humor and playful antics. Known for being a “cutup,” he brought joy and laughter wherever he went, but he was also a man of deep love and devotion. His faith in Christ was a defining mark on his life, and many witnessed the Lord’s presence in his words and actions. He found the Lord just a couple of years before his passing and diagnosis of a rare form of cancer, he found comfort and salvation in His grace, reaffirming that the Lord’s mark was truly on his life.
Born on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1957, in Washington DC, Ernie was the son of the late Elwood “Boots” Roles and Sarah Ruth Crabtree Roles. He married the love of his life, Brenda Williams Roles, on December 18, 1977— their 46th wedding anniversary. Together, they built a life rooted in love, faith, and family.
Ernie was a devoted family man who cherished his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. When he wasn’t working diligently in the family business, Roles Electric and Plumbing, LLC, alongside his son, he enjoyed spending quality time with those he loved most. A dedicated member of Maxwell Baptist Church, his faith and witness inspired many.
His legacy lives on through his children and grandchildren.
Link to his funeral service: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KN4cTNsmrxo
Family milestones in gold, history for context
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Merry Christmas 2025
Merry Christmas in heaven daddy, we love and miss you so much. Momma dropped pink rose petals on your grave that were left over from your anniversary. When I close my eyes I can see you sitting in that recliner leaned over drinking a diet coke, eating chips, and smoking a cigarette.
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Ernie's Surprise Birthday