Ernel "BIG ERNIE" Cambrice

Affectionately known as “Big Ernie”, Ernel was a selfless and kind individual to all that knew him. He was everyone’s friend, a father figure, a supporter, a comforter and even a hero. Like his mother, he welcomed all into his life as family.

Ernel graduated from L.B. Landry High School in 1964 before enlisting in the U.S. Army. He dutifully served before enrolling in the University of New Orleans to earn his B.A. in Education. Ernel taught at several schools including Rosenwald, Eisenhower, and Martin Behrman before retiring. Throughout this time, he was also the owner/operator of Humble A/C and Heating.

Ernel was very active in the community. He played on the local Cozy Kit baseball team, was the leader and cofounder of Proud Inc., a local boys’ club, and an active member of St. Stephen Missionary Baptist Church.

On Tuesday, May 19th, Ernel departed this life. He is preceded in death by his parents, Dolores (Lloyd) Thompson and Joseph (Eartha) Cambrice Jr., and brothers, Gilbert and Joseph Cambrice, III. He is survived by his children, Kareem (Janina) Cambrice and Jeanine (Hilary) Plante; grandchildren, Kahlil Cambrice, Zoe Wooten, Keyon Cox, Jaden Plante and Zane Plante; siblings, Cornell (Lisa) Cambrice, Donald Cambrice, Larry (Darleen) Cambrice, Mark Cambrice, Steven (Michelle) Cambrice, Robin Coleman, Cynthia Williams Darensburg, Rev. Dr. Norman (Nedra) Francis, Sandra James, Trudy (Edward) Johnson, Joan (Hendrix) Nelson, Iris (Mervin) Pomson, Rev. André Sigler and Marie Sigler. He is also survived by his aunts, Emma Black, Aline Goodman Collins, Shirley (André) Cormier, and Florence Robertson, former wife, Barbara Armant as well as a host of other relatives, godchildren, and dear friends.

Due to the current situation, attendance to the service is limited. Family and friends are invited to the visitation at Robinson Family Funeral Home, 9611 Hwy 23, Belle Chasse, LA on Friday, May 29, 2020 from 11:30 AM until 1:30PM. All guests attending the service or visitation will be required to wear a mask.

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