He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. His life was a testament to resilience, love and dedication.

Ernest’s early life was marked by adversity, having lost his mother just three months after his birth. Despite these challenges, Ernest was lovingly raised by his grandmother, Emelia Briseño, in Taylor, Texas, where he grew into the remarkable man his family cherished.

A gifted athlete, Ernest earned recognition as the district pole vault champion during his time at Taylor High School, impressively competing on a sandlot landing. He also had a great sense of humor, with a unique gift for telling jokes and stories in his own special way.

On June 25, 1961, Ernest married the love of his life, Delia Angelita Chavana, of Thrall, Texas. Together, they built a beautiful family over 63 years of marriage, raising four sons: Ernest Jr. (wife Robin), Dwayne (wife Marie), David (wife Monica) and Eric (wife Lyndsey).

Their family grew to include 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, each a testament to the legacy of love and devotion Ernest fostered throughout his life.

As a devout Catholic, Ernest instilled the love of the Lord in his family, shaping their values and faith for generations to come.

Ernest is preceded in death by his grandmother Emelia Briseño; his aunt Dora Carrizales of Allen Park, Michigan; and his aunt Josephine Davis of Matthews, North Carolina.

Ernest dedicated 60 years to the automotive industry, working tirelessly to provide for his family. His career began at Taylor Motor Co. (1960-1966) and continued at Capital Chevrolet (1966-1969), Henna Chevrolet (1969-2005) and, finally, Don Hewlett Chevrolet (2006-2020), where he retired.

Known for his expertise and unwavering work ethic, Ernest earned the respect and admiration of colleagues and customers alike.

Above all, he was the epitome of a hardworking family man. He took immense pride in his family, leading by example and instilling values of integrity, perseverance and unconditional love in his children and grandchildren. His steadfast commitment to his faith, family and community will forever inspire all who knew him.

Ernest will be remembered for his kind heart, warm smile and the strength of character that carried him through life’s challenges. His legacy lives on in the family he adored and the countless lives he touched.

A celebration of Ernest’s life is Jan. 30 at Providence Funeral Home, 307 Carlos G. Parker Blvd. N.W. in Taylor.

Visitation is 5-7 p.m., followed by the recitation of a rosary.

A funeral service is 10 a.m. Jan. 31 at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, 301 E. Fourth St., Taylor.

Pallbearers include Aden Ariola, Ernest Ariola III (Trey), Daniel Ariola, Jonathan Gonzalez, John Raymond Chavana and Manny Chavana.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to a local Parkinson’s Foundation, a cause that was meaningful to Ernest.

The family would like to send a special thank you to the SPJST Nursing & Rehabilitation staff and residence for all the amazing care and kindness he received since May 2024 until his death.

Though he has left this world, Ernest’s love and influence will remain with his family and friends forever. He was a man of extraordinary strength, compassion and humility, and he will be deeply missed.

A life that touches others goes on forever.