Southbridge: Ronald T. Ernst, 85, of Chapin St., passed away on Thursday, Jan. 1st, in Southbridge Rehabilitation and Health Care Center, Southbridge, after a brief illness.

He leaves behind his three sons, Michael D. Ernst and his fiancé, Melissa Miller of Willington, CT, Thomas H. Ernst and girlfriend, Dawn Beddard of Willington, CT and Jeffrey R. Ernst and his wife, Reb Ernst of Rockville CT; his two grandchildren, Kyle and Lindsey Ernst; a great grandchild daughter, Charolette Pinto and his niece, Melinda "Mindy" Ernst-Fournier and her husband, Roy.

Ron discovered his love and talent for music at a very young age.  He was a self-taught musician and as a teen played with his brother, Bob.  He enlisted in the Air Force in the late 50's and continued his service into the 60's.  In the Air Force, he was stationed in Guam and joined the Air Force Band.  His love for music led him down a path of a lifetime musical career.  For decades, he played in bands.  Playing instruments was a natural talent he played the bass, piano and accordion but the instrument he loved playing the most and his true talent was playing the vibes.  He loved playing with his fellow musicians often just meeting up and playing without rehearsing.  He loved listening to his jazz as much as he liked playing it.

He was a longtime member of the Improved Order of the Red Men Fraternal Organization in Southbridge, MA.  He had even been honored as a "Grand Sachem" in the organization.

Ron also enjoyed playing golf with his boys and grandson and he often would manage to leave his pipe on the last green or tee box.

Later in life, he enjoyed the company of his girlfriend, Linda L Bombard which he missed dearly when she passed away in 2022.

Most of all, Ron will be remembered for his wit and sense of humor as his greatest assets.

A Graveside Service for Ronald will be held at a later date in May 2026.

The Daniel T Morrill funeral Home, 130 Hamilton Street, Southbridge, is directing the arrangements.