Ernest "Big Ernie" Jerry Ault, Sr.

Ernest Jerry Ault, Sr., (Big Ernie) passed away peacefully on January 21, 2026, at the age of 85 with his family by his side. He started with the Knoxville Fire Department in 1963 and worked his way up to the ranks of Assistant Chief until he retired in 2001. He and Judy were members of the Volunteer Street Rod Association for many years. They loved taking trips and spending time with their friends. He loved his 1950 Henry J. Ernie loved watching Atlanta Braves baseball but most of all, he cherished time with his family.

Preceded in death by his father and mother, James and Molly Ault; brother, James Henry; and very special cousin, Juanita Inman.

He is survived by his loving wife of almost 45 years, Judy Stephens Ault; children: Ernie Jr. (Jackie), Eddie (Brenda), Kasi Shelton (Tyler), Lisa Lawson (Jeff), Stacy Nave (Tim); grandchildren: Nathan Ault (Beth), Brian Ault (Tiffany), Tiffany Ault (Ethan), Jeffrey Miller, Maggie McCoig (Brandon), Max McCoig (Kaylen), Kaylee Gionta (David), Christian Nave (Taylor), Keaton Nave, and Brody Lawson; 9 great-grandchildren and 1 on the way; longtime dear friend, Joe Keeble; and special friend during his illness, Chad Ward.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude and love to Baylee, Kassidy & Shelley - UT MICU - 5S, and Heather, his home health nurse. You are truly angels on Earth.

Family will receive friends from 5:00 - 7:00 PM on Thursday, January 29, 2026 at Berry Funeral Home, 3704 Chapman Hwy, with a funeral service to follow at 7:00 PM. Family and friends will meet at 10:45 AM for an 11:00 AM interment on Friday, January 30, 2026 at Berry Highland Memorial Cemetery, 5315 Kingston Pike. Grandsons will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to PAWZ Dog Services - 401 W Blount Ave, Knoxville, TN 37920 or East Tennessee Children's Hospital - P.O. Box 15010, Knoxville, TN 37901.

Online condolences may be left at www.berryfuneralhome.com for the Ault family.