Ernest Holley

ERNEST L. HOLLEY entered this world on October 18, 1955, in Edenton, North Carolina, born to the late Ernest Holley Jr. and Dorothy Mae H. Johnson. On Friday, December 5, 2025, Ernest peacefully made his heavenly transition, surrounded by his devoted and loving wife, Madeline "Sukie" Holley, and loved ones. Ernest was educated in the Bertie County School System and attended Bertie High School in Windsor, North Carolina. He later went on to attend Job Corps, where he earned his high school diploma as well as his trade certification in painting, setting the stage for a lifetime of hard work, craftsmanship, and commitment. For more than 40 years, Ernest worked diligently at Electric Boat in Groton, Connecticut, where he was known for his strong work ethic, reliability, and quiet dedication. Outside of work, Ernest enjoyed playing pool, capturing memories through videos and photographs, and spending cherished time with his family. Ernest's journey of faith began at Oxley Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Merry Hill, NC. After relocating to Connecticut, he continued his walk with Christ as a faithful member of Zion First Baptist Church in Middletown, CT. Christ was the center of Ernest's life, and his faith shaped his kindness, his humility, and the compassion he showed to others. A gentle soul with a heart of gold, Ernest was a man who served without hesitation and loved without conditions. His generosity knew no bounds. He took pride in helping to raise his nieces and nephew and welcomed bonus children into his life with the same love, guidance, and support he gave his own. Ernest found joy in watching his children, nieces, and nephews grow into their potential, encouraging each of them to dream big and aim high. For Ernest, family was not just important—it was the foundation of his world. Ernest also believed deeply in building a legacy of opportunity. He provided financial support to help start a business and contributed toward the purchase of a home. Every dollar set aside carried hope that he could help a family member one day unlock the door to their first home and experience the warmth of a new beginning. Ernest leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Madeline "Sukie" Holley, the love of his life. Ernest cherished Madeline with a devotion that was evident in all he did. She was his partner, his confidant, and the guiding light in every season of his life. He admired her strength and compassion and the warmth she brought into their home. Loving her was not merely something Ernest felt—it was something he lived daily, through his support, protection, and unwavering presence. Their bond was a quiet, enduring love story that he held with profound gratitude. Ernest is survived by his children: Talisha (William) Kearse, Direil (Kafi) Riddick, Toraino Parker, and Tokelia Leary; twelve grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He also leaves his siblings: Donald Holley of Windsor, NC, James Swain of Windsor, NC, Ledall Holley of Virginia Beach, VA, Tremaine James of Windsor, NC, Lenora (Lawrence) Alsop of Ellenwood, GA, Joyce Holley of Merry Hill, NC, Donna Askew of Jamaica, NY, Carolyn (Carl) Bazemore of Windsor, NC, Faye (Pastor Ricky) Williams of Windsor, NC, and Angela (Bruce) Bates of Upper Marlborough, MD. He is also survived by his loving father-in-law, Curtis Cockfield of Middletown, CT; brother-in-law, William Simms of Willimantic, CT; sisters-in-law, Marion Simms, Mary Simms, and Lorraine Simms of Hartford, CT, Lucinda (Barry) Redding of Willimantic, CT, and Esther Simms of North Carolina; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who loved him dearly. Ernest was predeceased by his beloved son, Lonnie Askew; his brothers, William Ernest Holley III and Darries Holley; his sisters, Gennell Holley and Gerlean Winston; sister-in-law, Priscilla Thigpen; and his mothers-in-law, Pearl Cockfield and Lessie Cockfield. The family invites all who loved Ernest to join them in honoring a life marked by devotion, generosity, and an unwavering love for family.

Ernest Holley

October 18, 1955 - December 5, 2025