It is with love and gratitude that we celebrate the life and legacy of Ernest R. "Ernie" White Sr., who peacefully departed this life on August 4, 2026, at St. Mary’s Alzheimer’s Center, Columbiana, Ohio. For those who knew him well, his nickname was "Kunchy". Born on January 26, 1938, in Youngstown, Ohio, Ernie was the eldest child born to the union of Earnest White and Virginia (Coleman) White.

A proud graduate of East High School in 1956, Ernie displayed outstanding athletic prowess from an early age. He also tried boxing in his teens. He was also a valued team player in all areas of his life, this was evident as he was a member of the East High Golden Bears’ only undefeated football season it ever had in its history.

After high school Ernie continued his football career at the University of Dayton. After playing rugby for the London Lords of the Ontario Rugby Football Union, he was recruited by the Hamilton Tiger Cats in 1960. He was an American professional football running back who played six seasons in the Canadian Football League for three teams- the Hamilton Tiger Cats, the Ottawa Rough Riders, and the Montreal Alouettes where he served as a versatile running back and return specialist. Known for his speed, determination, and agility, he earned Eastern Conference All-Star honors in 1962

A lifelong sports enthusiast, he enjoyed watching football and nearly every other sport, always appreciating good competition both on and off the field. Ernie’s athletic legacy came full circle in 1994 when he was inducted into the East High School Hall of Fame, an honor that recognized excellence, determination, and sportsmanship that defined both his career and his character. Ernie was also inducted into the prestigious Curbstone Coaches Hall of Fame in 2002.

Although his accomplishments on the football field brought him recognition, it was the man he was beyond the game who left the greatest impression. Ernie was loyal to those he loved, proud of his family, generous with his time, and happiest in the company of others.

After his professional football career, Ernie returned home to Youngstown, where he built a successful career with General Motors. Through hard work and dedication, he earned the respect of his colleagues before retiring in 1998.

In 1987, Ernie married Linda Bohannon-White, and together they shared nearly four decades of marriage, companionship, and cherished memories. As his soul mate, she tenderly maintained their vows “to love and to cherish” until parted by death. When Ernie’s health permitted, they attended Holy Trinity Missionary Baptist Church.

Ernie was a proud founder and member of the Youngstown Golf Association YoGo’s for five decades and loved the game of golf long before it became widely popular. He also dedicated many years to coaching at Hillman School, where he made a lasting impact on countless young athletes.

To know Ernie was to know a man who was friendly to everyone he met, fiercely competitive, and always ready with a joke or a smile. Whether he was coaching football, playing golf, tending his vegetable garden, grilling his famous barbecue ribs with his legendary secret sauce, or challenging someone to a spirited game of cards, he brought energy, laughter, and heart to everything he did. As a man who enjoyed living life and taking chances, Ernie enjoyed horse racing and the casino.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of nearly 40 years, Linda Bohannon-White; his children, Michael (Nelfa) Bonner, Malka White, Ernest (Ann-Simone) White II., Erich Coleman, Melissa White and Elizabeth White.

Precious memories are shared by his siblings Michelle Russell and Dr. Robin Eutz. His legacy will be sustained by his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Earnest White and Virginia White; brothers, Ronald White, Gerald Wallace, and Robert Crockett, along with aunts and uncles who he was raised alongside.

Ernie’s life was a testament to determination, perseverance, loyalty, and resilience. He leaves behind a legacy built not only on athletic achievement, but also on the many lives he touched through his kindness, laughter, mentorship, and love.

Ernest leaves behind cherished memories, and in the hearts of many, his spirit will remain a guiding light. As we honor his life, we invite all who knew him to join in remembering a remarkable man who lived with integrity and love.

In honor of Ernest's life, the family invites the community to a 10:00 AM public viewing on Monday, August 10, 2026, at the Jaylex Event Center, 2210 Glenwood Ave, Youngstown. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 AM with Pastor Lewis Macklin as the officiant.

After a committal ceremony, Ernest will be laid rest upon the serene meadows of Tod Homestead Cemetery. Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit will continue to live on in the stories shared, the lessons remembered, and the love that remains in the hearts of all who knew him.

For a caring farewell, at this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Ernest R. “Ernie” White Sr. elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Ave, Youngstown, OH 44511 330.782.8500