Ernest was born in North Carolina to Ruth E. Avery and Eric B. Avery on December 25th, 1941. Ernest served in the United States Army before spending over 30 years with DuPont, retiring as a manager. In his spare time, Ernest enjoyed playing board games with his children and grandchildren, camping, and watching basketball, but his greatest joy was the work he did for his church. He was a longstanding member of Wayne Hills Baptist Church in Waynesboro, where he served as a Sunday School teacher for over 30 years. His faith was the cornerstone of his life and the foundation for his family.
In addition to his parents, Ernest was preceded in death by a brother, Ronnie Avery.
Ernest is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Betty Avery of Staunton; his sons, Jeff Avery (Debbie) of Robinson, IL, and Dr. Kenneth Avery (Krissy) of Ona, WV. In addition, he is survived by his grandchildren, Jacob Avery (Amanda), Joshua Avery, Bethany Avery, Leah Avery, Tyler Avery and Molly Avery; his great granddaughter, Ellie Mae; his brother, Lt. Col. (Ret) Wesley Avery (Debbie); and his friend and brother-in-law, John Freeman (Carolyn).
A funeral service will be conducted on Saturday, August 22nd, 2026 at 12:00 PM at Wayne Hills Baptist Church with Pastor Jamie McClanahan officiating. Burial will follow at Augusta Memorial Park, and a reception will be held at Wayne Hills Baptist following the committal service.
Pallbearers will be, Jacob Avery, Joshua Avery, Tyler Avery, Fred Huffman, Bill Waggy and Kevin Galenis.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, August 22nd, 2026 at 11:00 AM, at Wayne Hills Baptist Church.
Donations to honor Ernest can be made to Wayne Hills Baptist Church.
Relatives and friends may share condolences and memories with the family online by visiting www.reynoldshamrickfuneralhomes.com
Arrangements entrusted to the Waynesboro Chapel of Reynolds Hamrick Funeral Homes.
