Ernesto N Soto

Ernesto “Neto” Nicolas Soto, 86, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2025, in El Paso, Texas. A lifelong El Pasoan, Ernesto was born on December 6, 1938, in the same city that would remain his beloved home throughout his life.

A proud graduate of Jefferson High School — home of the Silver Foxes — Ernesto went on to pursue higher education with unwavering dedication.

He earned degrees from both the University of Texas at El Paso and the University of Texas at Austin, ultimately graduating with a degree in pharmacy. His academic achievements laid the foundation for a long and meaningful career in service to others.

Ernesto was the proud owner of Sun Drugs Pharmacy in the Lower Valley of El Paso. Through his work as a pharmacist and business owner, he became a trusted figure in the community — known not only for his professional expertise but also for his compassion and commitment to those he served. His pharmacy was more than a place of business; it was a cornerstone of care and connection for countless families, businesses, and churches.

Deeply rooted in faith, Ernesto was raised Catholic and remained devoted to his beliefs throughout his life. He was married in the Catholic Church and raised his children in the Catholic faith. His spiritual life was closely tied to several local parishes, including Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Our Lady of the Valley, the Sisters of the Good Shepherd Home, and Santa Lucia Church — all of which he supported generously over the years.

Ernesto’s love for his community extended far beyond his professional life. A tireless supporter of youth programs and local initiatives, he played an instrumental role in creating the first Boy Scout Cub chapter for Our Lady of the Valley School and remained an active supporter of school events. He also supported local chapters of the El Paso Golden Gloves boxing clubs, a passion that stemmed from his own youth when he and his brothers were Golden Gloves fighters in the 1950s.

His legacy is one defined by service, faith, and an enduring love for El Paso. Those who knew him well will remember a man who worked hard not only for his family but also for the betterment of his community — a man whose generosity touched many lives across generations.

Ernesto is survived by his beautiful wife of 60 years, Shirley Barton Soto, and his sons Esteban L. Soto and Daniel A. Soto (Christina DeSantos), as well as his devoted daughter Selena Soto. He was a very proud grandfather to his granddaughters Isabella Soto, Olivia Soto, Christiana Soto, and Faith Soto.

He is preceded in death by his son Ernesto “Ernie” Soto; brothers Jose “Pepe” Soto, Jorge “Chochi” Soto, and Rodolfo “Rudy” Soto; and loving sister Elisa “Licha” Soto Armijo.

May Ernesto’s memory continue to inspire all who knew him to follow his example of faithfulness, compassion, humor, and unwavering dedication. A memorial service will be held on December 3rd from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Martin Funeral Home East, located at 1460 George Dieter Dr., 79938.

The family wishes to gently share that there will be no rosary service, and they thank everyone for their understanding.