It is with profound love and broken hearts that we announce the sudden and tragic passing of Colton James Ernst, age 16. He left this world too soon on June 9, 2026.

Born on December 12, 2009, in Gainesville, FL. He was the cherished son of Jonathan Ernst and Tara Escue and beloved brother to Ember Ernst. Colton was a previous student at Bell High School and was attending and excelling at virtual homeschool this year. He was an inspiring musician and had a deep passion for music. He taught himself to play any instrument he touched.To know Colton was to know a young man with a huge spirit, a quick-witted sense of humor, and loyalty to his family that knew no bounds. He had a unique ability to make everyone around himlaugh.While his time here was tragically cut short, the impact he made in our lives will be felt forever.He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Will Escue.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his parents, Jonathan and Kathy Ernst, and Tara Escue, his sister Ember Ernst, his grandparents Richard and Cathy Ernst, David and Sheila Colding, Marilyn Escue, and his step siblings, nieces and nephew and many aunts, uncles, family,and friends.

A memorial service will be held on June 20, 2026, at 5 p.m. at Jonathan Ernst’s home. The address is 12823 SE 5th Place, Gainesville, Fl 32641. 

All who knew and loved Colton are welcome to attend and celebrate his vibrant life.