Denni Ernst Obituary, Death – We are beyond heartbroken to learn that our vocalist Denni Ernst, better known by her stage name “Cherry,” passed away unexpectedly early this morning. Cherry had a severe heart attack and passed tragically in her own house.
Our deepest sympathies go out to everyone whose life she impacted in whatever way. She had a kind and kind spirit, and her presence will be sorely missed.
Funeral services in his honor will be held on Monday, September 26, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. at the Family Worship Center located at 5475 Lerna Road in Mattoon, Illinois 61938. Pastors Brad Brown and Brandon Wright will preside over the ceremony. Immediately after that will be the military rites. On Sunday, September 25, 2022, family and friends will be able to pay their respects at the Family Worship Center beginning at 4:00 p.m. and continuing until 8:00 p.m. The family is receiving assistance from Schilling Funeral Home at this time.
Dennis Ernst, the son of Virgil and Marjorie (Workman) Ernst, was born on July 29, 1947 in Pana, Illinois. His parents were Virgil and Marjorie. On May 4, 1968, he tied the knot with Deborah Edgecombe. Survivors include his loving wife, Debbie Ernst of Cooks Mills, IL; two children, son, Todd (Angela) Ernst of rural Sullivan and daughter, Wendy (Chuck) Fuqua of Mattoon; four grandchildren, Colin Ernst, Hayley “his little monster” Gagliardo, Cody Ashworth, and Austin Ashworth; three great-grandchildren, Hazel, Reese, and Annabelle; and many nieces, nephews, and greats.
Dennis’s parents and sister Patsy, as well as his in-laws Gene (Oliver) and Vicky (Buella) Edgecombe, as well as his brother-in-law Larry Edgecombe, all passed away before him. Dennis served in the United States Armed Forces for a total of 39 years, including two years as an infantry soldier in Vietnam and fifteen months as part of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Dennis was a true serviceman. On April 1st, 2007, he took his retirement as a Master Sergeant. After thirty years at Consolidated Communications, Dennis decided to take early retirement. Dennis was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ and an enthusiastic participant in the activities at the Family Worship Center. He was a Veteran who took a great deal of pride in both his country and his family.