Ernst Jean, Jr.

Ernst Jean, affectionately known as “Junior” to family and “Junns” to friends, passed away on October 28, 2024, at the age of 43. Born on March 14, 1981, in Brooklyn, New York, Ernst grew up in Miami, Florida, a place that always held his heart. Over the years, he made homes in Kansas, Horn Lake, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, and finally Fayetteville, North Carolina, where he spent the last chapter of his life.

Ernst was the beloved fiancé of Sieda Gilmore, with whom he found love again after the passing of his late wife, Vernetta M. Jean. He was the caring brother of Sandra Jean-Pierre, Ermione Jean (Gardner), and Michael Jean, as well as the late Gerald “Jerry” Jean-Pierre. Ernst is remembered with love by his nephews Armand Latortue and Kaleb, niece Robyn, and a large extended family including cousins Remsky Leveille, Renel Leveille, Stanley Jean, Patricia Latortue, Elysee Latortue, Steven Latortue, Antoinette Jean, Falen Leveille, Brooklyn Leveille, and Legend Leveille. Ernst was predeceased by his parents, Ghislane Latortue and Ernst Jean Sr.

A proud graduate of Miami Northwestern High School, Class of ’99, Ernst later earned his degree in graphic design from Wichita Area Technical College in 2004. He excelled in his field, working at Ensi Design Firm from 2013 to 2018 before transitioning to freelance graphic design, where he continued to express his creativity.

Ernst’s passion for music was ever-present, from his early days playing trombone in middle school band to releasing his own music on Apple Music. Inspired by hip-hop legends like Biggie, music was his lifelong love. He was also an avid gamer, a hobby that spanned decades—from the classic Super Mario Bros. 3 to Destiny 2, where he forged unforgettable memories with friends.

Ernst was a man of boundless kindness and unwavering support, often putting others’ needs before his own. Known for his vast knowledge, he was a “walking encyclopedia,” always ready to provide answers or return the next day with a wealth of information. Ernst’s generosity and dedication to others were his trademarks; he was a source of strength, wisdom, and care to all who knew him.

The family will receive friends on Friday, November 8, 2024, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Sullivan’s Highland Funeral Service, located at 610 Ramsey St, Fayetteville, NC 28301. His funeral will follow at 1:30 p.m. in the chapel of Sullivan’s Highland Funeral Service and will conclude with a burial at Lafayette Memorial Park. 

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Services are entrusted to Sullivan's Highland Funeral Service & Crematory.