Robert Edwin Earnest

Robert Edwin Earnest, age 79, of Turlock, California, passed away on November 2, 2024. Robert fought bravely against esophageal cancer until his final hours, spending his last days with loving family and the excellent care providers of Community Hospice in Hughson, CA.

Robert, or “Bob” to his many friends and acquaintances, was born on September 16, 1945, in Turlock, California, the firstborn son of Albert Cecil Earnest and Evangeline Ranghild Sondeno. Robert was blessed to have the opportunity to grow up in a town surrounded with many aunts, uncles, and cousins. His mother was the eldest of 10 children and many of her siblings resided in Turlock. As a youth, he enjoyed hot summers swimming in the canals, exploring the town and orchards, and participating in countless outdoor activities.

Robert graduated from Turlock High School in 1963. Upon matriculating, he went on to receive his undergraduate bachelor degree in psychology and his teaching credential from Stanislaus State University. Robert joined the U.S. Army as a member of the National Guard and Army Reserves in 1969, serving for 28 years until receiving his honorable discharge in 1997. Robert proudly served his country, and concurrently served as a beloved principal in the Rohnert Park and Salida School Districts. He culminated his career as a school administrator at Turlock Christian School.

Robert was married to Judith Ann Earnest in Sunnyvale, CA in 1969. Robert and Judy enjoyed 55 wonderful years of marriage. Judy was by his side for his entire adult life and was next to him at the time of Robert’s passing. After briefly living in Fresno, CA, Robert and Judy moved to Santa Rosa, CA, where they would raise their three very attractive and intelligent children, Robb, Genelle, and Janna. When their children went to college, Robert and Judy moved to Turlock. They spent several years living in Ft. Mill, South Carolina, before finally deciding to live their remaining years back in Turlock. Robert was blessed with twelve grandchildren.

Robert became affectionately known to his family as “Papa,” and was a loving, doting grandfather to all twelve of his grandchildren. He remained an avid lover of sports, particularly the San Francisco Giants and the San Francisco 49ers, to his final days. He was an avid fisherman and frequently enjoyed his time spent on the lake. Robert was a cherished member of many churches over the years, frequently serving as a church elder, helping with maintenance projects, attending Bible studies, praying for and leading a younger generation and serving wherever he saw a need. He was a devout believer and his loved ones are at peace knowing he is in heaven and probably working on construction projects with best friend and fellow DIY expert, Jesus.

Remaining to cherish Robert’s memory are his wife Judy, his children Robb (Marcia) Earnest of Simi Valley, California, Genelle Billings of Fort Mill, South Carolina, and Janna (Mike) Fisher of Turlock, California, his siblings Vernon, Rachel, and Steven, and his grandchildren Ethan, Owen, Joshua, Zackary, Addalynne, Tyler, Lukas, Andrew, Nathaniel, Asher, Jessa, and Zane.

A Celebration of Life will be held on November 30, 2024 at 11:00 AM at New Life Christian Center (2918 W. Tuolumne Rd, Turlock, CA), with Pastor Dave Larson presiding. Interment will be at Lakewood Memorial Park in Hughson, CA. Military Honors will be conducted in the presence of direct family only. In light of holiday hours, the church and funeral home will not be accepting deliveries. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in the name of Robert’s memory may be directed to Samaritan's Purse Charity at samaritanspurse.org. Condolences can be sent to the family at 962 Hartwick Ave. Turlock, CA 95382.