Ernest Timmons

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ernest Timmons, 76, of Salt Lake City, Utah. Ernest departed this life peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and quiet strength.

Born on November 11, 1948, to the late Mr. Willie F. and Mrs. Luvina B. Timmons in New Orleans, LA, he was the oldest of eight siblings born of this union. Ernest grew up in Wilson Chapel A.M.E. Church and graduated from G.W. Carver Sr. High School in 1966 before joining the U.S. Air Force at the age of 17. He served 16 years in the military, including four years on the RAF Lakenheath Air Force Base in London, England. Upon returning to the U.S., Ernest settled in El Paso, TX, where he pursued higher education, earning a bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of Texas at El Paso in 2001.

Ernest returned to New Orleans for a short time before being displaced by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. He was transported from New Orleans by the military to Salt Lake City, UT, where he was met by Pastor France Davis of Calvary Baptist Church.  His story is also featured here: https://www.kuer.org/news/2025-08-28/20-years-on-a-hurricane-katrina-evacuee-says-he-found-genuine-love-in-utah. During his years in Utah, Ernest studied special education at Utah State University and went on to earn his master’s degree in educational management at Argosy. He was also inducted as a member of the Salt Lake City Freemasons Society in 2007.

A devoted member of Calvary Baptist Church, Ernest proudly sang as a member of the Men’s Choir. He spent the past 20 years of his life building meaningful connections, always ready with a warm smile and a helping hand. In the past year, though he struggled with health challenges, he continued his work at the George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center until August 2025.   

Ernest cherished family traditions, especially sharing stories during the holidays. He especially loved Thanksgiving gatherings, which were always a highlight for him. He loved going home to New Orleans and last year celebrated his 75^th birthday there surrounded by loved ones.   

On Monday, September 15, 2025, Ernest was called home to be with the Lord. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Rev. Willie L. Timmons and Larry Timmons; nephews Curtis L. Timmons, Terrance E. Timmons, Devin D. Timmons; and grand-nephew Jayden A. Timmons. He leaves to cherish his memory one brother, Karl (Karen) Timmons; four sisters, Mary L. Timmons, Susan Ratliff, Lorraine Rodgers, and Corry Ann Timmons; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

Ernest’s life will be celebrated on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at Calvary Baptist Church in Salt Lake City at 11:00 am (MT). Visitation will begin at 10:00 am when friends are encouraged to share stories and memories that reflect the spirit he brought into the world. Ernest will be taken back home to New Orleans for burial.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Calvary Baptist Church, Salt Lake City, in honor of Ernest’s lifelong commitment to his church and community.