James “Woodie” Ernsberger, Sr. went home to be with his Lord and Savior, surrounded by his loving family on September 15, 2026. He was 91.
He was born on January 23, 1935 in Mansfield, Ohio to the late James W. and Josephine (Bajai). After the tragic loss of his father, James’ stepfather, Jack Fletcher, became an integral part of his life. Living in the Mansfield area for his entire life, he attended and graduated from Mansfield Senior High School with the class of 1953. After high school James enlisted in the United States Navy, and proudly served during the Korean War from 1954-1957.
On January 24, 1959, he married the love of his life, Mary Ellen O’Hearn, and together they shared 65 wonderful years of marriage until her passing in 2024. Now they are reunited in Heaven once again.
Following his honorable service in the U.S. Navy, James returned home and began a 35-year career with Westinghouse, where he worked as a Material Controller until his retirement in 1990. He was a longtime and faithful member of St. Mary of the Snows Parish and enjoyed being involved with Richland County Fish and Game. James was also a member of Moose Lodge #341, the Westinghouse Veterans Association, and AMVETS Post #0026. His military service remained an important part of his life, and he treasured the friendships and camaraderie he found through his fellow veterans and the organizations he was proud to be a part of.
He is survived by his loving children Kimberly (Stephen) Swank, James (Sue) Ernsberger, Jr., and Michael (Jenny Thompson) Ernsberger, grandchildren Tiffany Swank, Alecia (Tyler) Extine, Charles (Erika) Swank, Ian (Karly) Ernsberger, and Porsche Ernsberger, great-grandchildren Alexandria Collier, Arianna Collier, Maleia Wyatt, Callie Shoffstall, Ayla Swank, Bexley Swank, Oslo Swank, and Ella Grace Ernsberger, sister-in-law Pat Rottman, numerous step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, as well as several beloved shipmates.
In addition to his wife, James is preceded in death by his parents and brothers Donald Ernsberger and Gary Ernsberger.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to either the Richland County Fish and Game, 1360 Poth Road, Mansfield, Ohio, to St. Mary of the Snows Parish/School, or to Southern Care Hospice Services.
The Ernsberger family will receive guests on Thursday, September 24, 2026 from 9 to 10:30 am in the Snyder Funeral Homes, Marion Avenue Chapel. The Mass of Christian Burial will also be held on September 24, 2026 at 11 am at St. Mary of the Snows Parish, 1630 Ashland Road, Mansfield, Ohio. Burial to follow at Prince of Peace Catholic Cemetery.
Snyder Funeral Homes is honored to serve the Ernsberger family and encourage you to share a fond memory or message of condolence on his obituary page at www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Homes, Marion Avenue Chapel
Website: www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com