Alene Wilkerson Ernst, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family. Born on December 31, 1936, in Kirbyville, TX, Alene lived a life full of love, creativity, and devoted service to others. She was the cherished daughter of Van Dorn Wilkerson and Francis Annie Clark Wilkerson, and sister to Lawson Lee Wilkerson and Von "Robert Page" Wilkerson, all of whom predeceased her, along with her beloved husband, John Lewis Ernst.
Alene's journey began in Beaumont, TX, where she graduated from French High School and later pursued studies at Lamar University. Throughout her career, Alene demonstrated her creativity and dedication. She worked as a seamstress and later in retail at the White House in Beaumont, TX, before retiring as a bookkeeper at Gulf States Utilities.
On June 30, 1955, Alene married Gaylon Charles Chesser, and together they resided in Vidor, TX, raising their son, Robin Gaylon Chesser. Alene found love again with John Lewis Ernst, whom she married on June 6, 1974. She embraced John's children from a previous marriage—Mike, Mark, and Kathy—as her own, nurturing them with love and care. Alene was a precious mother to all her children and their spouses.
Her life was enriched by her deep faith. Alene and John were members of Shearer Hills Baptist Church in San Antonio, TX. They led a transformative ministry to the men at the Lifetime Recovery Center through the Freedom Baptist Church. Their work touched countless lives, offering hope and spiritual guidance.
Alene found immense joy in her hobbies, which reflected her creative spirit. She loved cooking, sewing, painting with acrylics, and tending to her plants. She beautifully painted wooden rocking horses which were lovingly crafted for the grandchildren by John. Her home was often filled with laughter and warmth as she hosted large family gatherings and spent countless hours playing card games around the table.
Alene's family was her greatest joy. She is survived by her son, Robin G. Chesser (Cathy); sons John Michael Ernst (Rhonda) and A. Mark Ernst (Cindy); and daughter Kathy Ernst Gross (Steve). Her legacy of love continues through her grandchildren, Alyrose (Mitchell) Manahan, Cassidy Chesser, Seth (Shannon) Chesser, Caleb (Christina) Chesser, Will (Erika) Chesser, Caitlin Ernst, Logan Ernst, Benjamin (Jessica) Ernst, Zachary (Kelley) Ernst, Jesse (Claire) Ernst, John Ernst, Stephanie (Jeremy) Moore, Matthew Gross, and 20 great-grandchildren.
Alene had a unique gift for making everyone feel welcome and valued. Her genuine interest in the lives of family and friends made her a cherished confidante and companion. Her warmth and kindness created lasting memories for all who knew her.
A service to celebrate Alene's life will be held on September 5, 2026, at 3:00 PM at Trout Creek Baptist Church, 1509 FM 1004, Call, TX 75933. She will be interred at the Trout Creek Cemetery.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Embrace Hospice for their compassionate care during Alene's final days.
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you." - 1 Peter 1:3-4
