Ernest Junior Hurt, 96, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 5:05 A.M. Monday August 11, 2025, at Heritage Health Therapy and Senior Living in Hoopeston. He was born on February 10, 1929, in Lyons, IL, the son of Ernest Edward and Annie Jane (Franklin) Hurt. He married Erma Jean Rutledge on December 21, 1957, in Covington, IN. She preceded him in death on October 9, 2011.

In addition to his wife of 54 years, Ernest was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Marie (Joe) Spencer and Edna (Fred) Gassaway; and one brother, Paul (Kay) Hurt.

He is survived by three sons, Jim (Terri) Hurt of Wellington, IL, Randy (Suzi-Beverly) Hurt of Danville, IL, and Ernest (Mazie) Hurt of Hoopeston, IL; four grandchildren, Dustin, Trevor, and Alex Hurt, and Melissa Carder; and several nieces and nephews.

Ernest worked at Joan of Arc in Hoopeston for 38 years until his retirement. He was a member of Chestnut Street Church of Christ in Hoopeston.  He enjoyed gardening, fishing, and hunting. He also enjoyed driving around town and loved visiting with his friends at McDonald’s. Ernest always loved telling stories and jokes and could always make everyone laugh.

Visitation will be held 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Saturday August 16, 2025, at Anderson Funeral Home, 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL. The funeral service will follow the visitation and will begin at 1:00 P.M. Saturday at the funeral home with Pastor John Morris officiating. Burial will follow in Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston.

Memorial donations may be made in memory of Ernest to Heritage Health Therapy and Senior Living, 423 N. Dixie Highway, Hoopeston, IL 60942 or to the donor’s choice.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Ernest’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.