Joshua Allen Ernest

Joshua Allen Ernest, 40, died at his home in the Drew's Creek area of Naoma in Raleigh County, WV on March 2, 2025. Born on June 3, 1984, Josh was the son of Jimmy Ernest and Debbie (Cline) Ernest of Matoaka, WV. Besides his parents, Josh is survived by two brothers, Jason of Lashmeet, WV, and Eric of Matoaka, WV; a niece, Santana, of Matoaka, WV, who was very special to him; a daughter, Annabelle, for whom he grieved, and missed every day he could not be with her; he loved her with all his heart; and his devoted wife, Samantha Ernest, with whom he shared a deep and constant love. It was Josh's greatest desire to care for her and to make her happy. Josh also leaves his dogs, Nala and Simba, who will miss him very much. Starting early in life, Josh had a strong desire to succeed and excel. In his elementary years, he earned many awards for his educational progress and good behavior, as well as the Presidential Fitness Award for each year. As a high school senior, he received a silver medal at the State Skill Olympics in Martinsburg, WV. After graduating, he joined the United States Navy and served six years on the USS Gunston Hall, honing his welding skills and receiving many awards. After his time in the navy, Josh enjoyed careers in welding, coal mining, fabrication work for Conwell, and working for Asplundh Tree Service. Wherever he was, he learned all he could. This knowledge went with him, and was not wasted, but used to turn things he salvaged into functioning devices or implements. He also taught himself plumbing and electrical work. Josh was truly a "jack of all trades, and master of them all!" Yet he was modest, and always claimed he wasn't smart. Wherever Josh went, he was generous to those with a financial need and spent a good bit of his time assisting neighbors who needed a helping hand. Josh Ernest leaves behind many who loved and appreciated him. Visitation will be at the Delbert Freewill Baptist Church on Drew's Creek on Monday, March 17, 2025 from noon until 1pm. with the funeral immediately following. Afterwards, there will be a dinner for family and friends in the church's ladies aid building. Burial will be in the Miller Cemetery in Drew's Creek.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Joshua Allen Ernest, please visit our Tree Store.