John James Ernst

John James Ernst age 85 of Rockford, passed away Wednesday, January 8, 2020 at Blount Memorial Hospital. He was a member of Praise Lutheran Church in Maryville. John was an Engineer in the Rubber Industry. He enjoyed gardening, carpentry, and hiking. John was a Veteran of the United States Army. Preceded in death by: parents, David & Theodora Ernst; siblings, David, Alfred, Adeline, Ruth, Elizabeth, Vivian, Katherine, and Charlotte. Survivors include: wife, Julia Ernst; daughter & son-in-law, Marie & Dave Michels; son & daughter-in-law, Marc & Jennifer Ernst; Grandchildren, Kevin & Craig Michels and Nicholas & Jacob Ernst; sister, Margaret; brothers-in-law, John, Charles, Harland; many nieces and nephews. Family will receive friends from 10:30 until 11:00 AM, Saturday, January 11, 2020 at Praise Lutheran Church. Memorial service will follow at 11:00 AM. Family and friends will assemble for graveside service and inurnment at 9:30 AM, Wednesday, January 15, 2020 at Tennessee Veterans Cemetery on John Sevier Hwy. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of John James Ernst please visit our Sympathy Store.