Ernest J. “Ernie” Morales, 88, beloved husband, father, friend and trailblazing Hispanic leader, died Sunday, August 13th, 2023 surrounded by his loving family following a brief illness. A pillar of the Fillmore community, his humble and compassionate leadership has inspired countless individuals in the county and throughout the state. Born in Fillmore on March 18th, 1935, Ernie attended local schools where he excelled as a student-athlete. A standout baseball and basketball player at Ventura College, he earned an Associate’s Degree before continuing his studies at San Jose State University. An avid sports aficionado, he was a lifelong fan of Notre Dame football, the Los Angeles Rams and the Chicago Cubs. Ernie was a proud U.S. Army veteran, serving in Alaska before returning to marry his beloved wife of 62 years, Rebecca “Becky” Sosa of Rancho Sespe. As a Project Analyst for the U.S. Navy, he earned numerous accolades during his 31-year career as a federal civil employee. Ernie was a pioneering leader in the Latino community, serving three terms as Mayor during his 16-year service as a Fillmore City Council member. He served as President of the League of California Cities and was leader of numerous church and community organizations. A Fourth Degree Knight, Ernie founded the St. Francis of Assisi Chapter of the Knights of Columbus where he was a tireless and principled advocate of those less fortunate.
Ernie is survived by his wife, Becky and their three children, Jeff (Kimberly), Brian (Kristi) and Michelle. He is also survived by his sister Sonia Morales Getty (Gene) and six grandchildren, Sofia, CJ, Gabriel, Finn, Luke and Stella. Their “extended” family includes countless adoring relatives, godchildren, old friends and mentees who continue to be inspired by their loving guidance. Ernie will be welcomed to eternal joy by his parents, Georgia and Frank “Pancho” Morales, his sister Frances “Pancha” Morales Jimenez and brother Joseph Morales. Ernie was a man of remarkable grace, compassion, intellect, humility, dignity and wit, a living example of the Christian values he held so close to his heart.
A rosary will be held on Friday, September 29th at 9:30am at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Fillmore, followed by a Catholic Mass at 10:00am. Private interment will be held at Bardsdale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be sent to the Fillmore High School Mariachi Band, “Los Rayos” c/o of the Fillmore High School Alumni Association.