Thomas Keith Ernst

Thomas Keith Ernst, age 90 passed away on April 21st, 2024, peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 12th, 1934, in Harlan County, KY, and moved to the Northern Kentucky area at a young age where he spent the rest of his life. Tom held many roles in his career, including jewelry designer and department store manager. He spent most of his professional career as a manufacturer’s representative in the outdoor casual furniture industry, operating Tom Ernst Sales.

First and foremost, Tom was a loving father and family man. He was always happy to have company at the house and enjoy fellowship with friends and family. Tom was a religious man. He spent his life setting examples of how to be Christian and Catholic and serve the Lord. He loved the outdoors and spent time hunting, fishing, boating, and shooting. He held the Kentucky State Whitetail non-typical record from 1978-1981. Tom was a proud member of the Order of Kentucky Colonels.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Ann Lee Ernst (Murphy), and his six children Lee Ann Ernst (Kent Miles), Daniel Joseph Ernst (Kim), Michael Thomas Ernst (Cindy), Christopher Keith Ernst, Matthew John Ernst (Anne) and Thomas Anthony Ernst (Melanie). Tom loved his grandchildren and is survived by 19 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and his sister Peggy Hickman. Tom was preceded in death by his sister Wanda Sue Harvey.

Visitation will be Saturday, April 27th, 2024, from 9:00-11:30am at Middendorf Funeral Home, 3312 Madison Pike, Ft. Wright, KY 41017. Mass of Christian Burial will take place following the visitation at noon at St. Agnes Church, 1680 Dixie Highway, Ft. Wright, KY 41011. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Foundation are suggested. They will be used to support youth outdoor education and development of wildlife habitat. Donations can be made at: https://kentuckywildlife.com/donate-to-the-kfwf-general-fund/ or by check to “Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Foundation” with Tom Ernst in the memo line and sent to PO Box 4115 Frankfort, KY 40604.