10/09/2025
George Raymond Ernst, 85, of Citrus Springs Florida, passed peacefully on September 28, 2025, surrounded by family. He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and a dear friend to many.
Born on June 26, 1940, in Hempstead, New York, he was preceded by his parents, George and Ida Ernst and his son Christopher Ernst.
He is survived by his wife Kathleen Ernst, and his children Raymond Ernst, George Ernst (Kimberly), and Cindy Willoughby (Arthur). He also leaves behind grandchildren Kyle Ernst, Austin Ernst, Joshua Willoughby, and Sarah Hutton, along with great-grandchildren Harper Grace Hutton, Jackson Hutton, Tyler Willoughby, and Cade Willoughby.
George had a successful career as a reliability and safety engineer, working as an independent contractor for notable companies including Texas Instruments, PRD, Boeing, and General Electric. His expertise extended to working on several air-craft carriers including the JFK and USS Constellation “Connie”. After retiring, he found joy in repairing radio tubes, antique radios and electronics. He had a passion for travel, visiting many countries such as South Africa, Spain, Singapore, Germany, Italy, Canada, and several countries in Central America while living in Costa Rica. Fluent in French and Spanish, he also spoke some Italian.
He shared 36 wonderful years of marriage with Kathleen, whom he met in Fort Wayne, Indiana, in 1988. They wed in Lake Tahoe, as George humorously remarked, “marriage is a gamble”. They lived in Perry, Georgie, and various locations in Florida, with their most adventurous chapter being their four years in Costa Rica, where George taught himself Spanish. They enjoyed life in both the mountains in San Ramon and the beach in Playa Hermosa. He loved the culture and people and completely immersed himself in the community before returning to Citrus County in 2014.
George has a love for baseball, boating and spending time with his family. After years of trying, he finally caught a foul baseball last year at the Tampa Bay Rays game last year. A dedicated fan of the U Conn women’s basketball team and all sports, he also had a passion for classic cars, restoring several after retirement. He also enjoyed Margaritas, Grand
Marnier and fine dining. He loved music, and more than once walked up to a piano player in a bar, told them to take a break and sat down to play. Known for his quick wit and humor, he had a unique ability to make others smile, often with an off-color joke. He left a lasting impact on all who crossed his path. His affection for animals was evident, especially in his relationship with his beloved dog Izzy, whom he affectionately called “his beautiful girl”.
George’s passing leaves a significant void in the hearts of his family, friends and all who were fortunate enough to know him. He requested no formal service, and his remains will be scattered in the Gulf of Mexico at later date. The family invites anyone with a cherished memory or photo to share it via email to gator972002@yahoo.com, as they plan to compile these memories in a keepsake book.
Brown Funeral Home and Crematory, Lecanto, Florida, in Charge of arrangements.
