Retired SGM Ernest Fernandez, Age 65, passed away Sunday, December 11, 2016 at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, surrounded by those he loved.

Funeral services will be Monday, December 19, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. in Jernigan-Warren Chapel with Rev. Hyon, officiating. Burial will follow in Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery with military honors. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Sunday, December 18, 2016 from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. A reception will follow after the burial at Fayetteville Korean Baptist Church 6873 Cliffdale Rd. Fayetteville, N.C. 28314.

Ernest is survived by his wife of 39 years, Myong-Cha; their son, Ernesto Fernandez; daughters, Cori-Yi and Oristela Maria-Yi Fernandez; son-in-law, Chad McCorkle; and sister, Maria del Carmen Toledo.

Ernest was born in Havana, Cuba during a time of great political turmoil. It was this turmoil that lead his parents, Ernesto and Oristela Fernandez, to immigrate to the United States. They settled in the Washington Heights neighborhood of New York City, where Ernest grew up.

After graduating high school, Ernest enlisted in the U.S. Army. While serving in the Army he found himself stationed at various posts in Asia, most notably Korea (where he met his wife and his daughters were born); Central America; and the United States, mainly Ft. Bragg (which he affectionately referred to as The Center of the Universe and the birth place of his son).

Ernest was a veteran of numerous foreign wars and military police actions. His distinguished 30 year military career earned him many decorations, including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, and Meritorious Service Medals. He was proud to be a soldier and he loved being a paratrooper.

He touched many lives, choosing to lead by example and inspired others with his steadfast loyalty, honor, and integrity.

He was a loving husband, a devoted father, a caring friend, and one hell of a soldier.