Ernest Paddyfoot, Jr., 60, passed away on Sunday, January 22, 2023 in Virginia Beach, Virginia, surrounded by family.  Ernest was born on May 12, 1962 to Ernesto and Loretta Paddyfoot in Queens, New York.  He attended Benjamin N. Cardozo High School in Queens, where he met his future wife, Barbara Little.  After marriage, the couple eventually relocated to Virginia Beach, Virginia, after pit stops in Newark, New Jersey and Newport News, Virginia.  After 17 years of marriage, the couple parted ways, but their union brought forth two children, Jamaine and Chantal.

Ernest provided for his family and held many managerial positions through various occupations due to his excellent leadership and time management skills.  At work, he earned many honors and achievements, excelling in communication and production. Ernest enjoyed many jobs in transportation, mainly as a driver, and was known for his subtle sense of humor.  His last occupation was as a bus driver for Virginia Beach City Public Schools before retiring in 2018.

In his spare time, he enjoyed spending time with loved ones, playing cards, cooking, watching movies and basketball, and collecting art.

Ernest was predeceased by his father Ernesto Paddyfoot, maternal grandmother Dorothy Hamlin, and grandson Brooklon Ellis.  His legacy will be carried on by his son Jamaine and his wife Brandie, daughter Chantal and her husband Rasheen, grandsons Justin, Ean, and Trey, future granddaughter Londyn, his brother Marc and his wife Jennifer, nieces Olivia and Isabelle, his mother Loretta, and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and loving friends.

Although he only fathered two children, he is remembered by many for having a tremendous impact on the lives of numerous kids in the communities where he resided.

The family will honor Ernest’s wishes of helping him travel the world by having his ashes spread at sea in a private Celebration of Life event.