Thomas “Thom” E. Ernst Jr., 41, of Jacksonville, Fla. passed away Friday.

He is survived by his wife and best friend, Melissa.

Mr. Ernst, who was born in Butler, loved Harley Davidson motorcycles, Johnny Cash and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Because of his big heart, he was well loved and had many friends.

In addition to his wife, Melissa, Mr. Ernst is survived by his mother, Nancy Bostaph; his father, Thomas Ernst Sr.; a daughter, Sydney Ernst; three stepdaughters, Taylor Wilson, Raygen Turner and Kelly Dean; a stepson, Zachary Wilson; a sister, Jennifer Davis (Scott); a brother, Todd Ernst (Candie); a niece; and three nephews.

<B>ERNST</B> — A memorial service with military honors for Thomas “Thom” E. Ernst Jr., who died Friday, April 15, 2011, will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday at the <B>Corey-Kerlin Funeral Home</B>, 940 Cesery Blvd., Jacksonville, Fla., His uncle, Pastor Larry Hays, will officiate.In lieu of flowers, the family would greatly appreciate donations to the account of Melissa Ernst, for the family of Thomas Ernst, at any Navy Federal Credit Union, Jacksonville, Fla.