Thomas "Ernie" I. Ensley

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Ernie Ensley, 65, of New Bern, passed away unexpectedly on December 20, 2024, due to a brain aneurysm, leaving in his wake legions of heartbroken friends, neighbors, colleagues and a loving family, especially his mother, Jackie, who just celebrated her 98th birthday. He had so much of life yet to live.

Son of Jackie and George Ensley, Ernie was born in New Bern on April 6, 1959. He attended Brinson Elementary School and graduated from New Bern Senior High School in 1977. He went on to NC State University where he earned a degree in business/marketing design from the School of Design.

After college, he worked with his family’s marine radio business, Ensley Radio Company, where he’d been a fixture from childhood doing everything from sweeping floors to installing and selling radar equipment on yachts as an adult. In 1986, he joined CENTURY 21 Zaytoun-Raines and has served as licensed general contractor, licensed appraiser and real estate broker. Ernie loved the water, and he was a “go to” broker for waterfront properties, having had vast knowledge of every nook and cranny lining the Trent and Neuse Rivers. He became one of the largest producing agents in the New Bern area and won numerous awards over the past 38 years including “Realtor of the Year” for Craven County and the “Double Centurion Producer Award” – the only agent in the regional market to ever achieve this award.

It’s difficult to put a fine point on describing Ernie. He was so many things — a true Renaissance man, gifted and skilled in multiple areas. He showed horses in his youth, spending his days at the barn and weekends on the road going to shows. He was an accomplished artist and art collector, a talented pianist and singer, an avid hiker and an animal advocate. He recently tamed four feral kittens and their mother to become a “cat daddy” to the surprise of all given his lifelong allergies to cats!

Ernie loved to travel the world, hike nearby trails, kayak the Trent and Neuse, and entertain. One of the most memorable events was his mock “Deb Ball” back in the ‘80s where Ernie presented each deb friend with a plastic red rose upon descending his staircase for their “presentation” — hilarious and classic Ernie humor. In more recent years, he hosted all kinds of other gatherings with friends — favorites being dock parties at his home to watch fireworks and sunsets. If you were a friend of Ernie’s, then you most likely have at least one unforgettable “Ernie story” about some over-the-top fun experience.

Ernie could photograph a Trent River sunset from his backyard like no other, having developed a following on Facebook for his exquisite captures. There has been talk among friends of turning his colorful photos into a coffee table book.

Ernie was whip-smart and had an intelligent energy that surrounded you when in conversation. And conversations were almost always peppered with an outburst of his trademark laugh – loud, often jarring, and delivered with impeccable timing. And how he loved to laugh! Ernie’s cerulean blue eyes were captivating — no more so than when delivering a swift and witty spin on whatever you were talking about. He always had a unique twist on things, and had vast knowledge on myriad subjects that made you think and want to explore more.

Ernie didn’t mince words, and you could always count on him for a straight-up, honest opinion. You always knew where you stood with Ernie. He was a loyal friend who deeply loved people and showed it consistently with unexpected gifts (often his own artistic creation), quiet support, or a quick text about something he knew you’d enjoy. Ernie was also a connector of people, having vast contacts in business and social circles all over.

Ernie’s community involvement included: Board of Realtors Professional Standards Committee, New Bern Chamber of Commerce, Craven Concerts (past president), Friends of Tryon Palace, Craven Arts Council, National Association of Realtors, New Bern Home Builders Association and the Footlight Theatre group.

Ernie’s dedication to his mother, especially over the past years in her 90s, tells the story of his character and values. He cared for her meticulously, lovingly and consistently, making all of her meals from scratch and delivering to her each week. It was his own version of “Meals on Wheels” and something he did gladly.

The world will be a dimmer, less vibrant place without the radiance and entertaining wit of Ernie Ensley. He was a true force who made his mark on the world in a creative, thoughtful and memorable way. Ernie Ensley was loved – intensely loved – and his loss will create a chasm that won’t be filled. He was just that special.

Ernie is pre-deceased by his sister, Jacquelyn “Ann” Ensley Robinson, and father, George W. Ensley. He is survived by his mother, Jacquelyn “Jackie” Bonner Ensley; brother, George W. Ensley (Cindy); brother-in-law, Tom Robinson; nieces, Erin Moore, Lyn Hammonds and Kimberly Russell; nephews, George W. Ensley and Matthew Ensley; and numerous great-nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.

A funeral service is set for Saturday, December 28, 2024, at Daniels-Sadler Funeral Home, 52 Bryant St, Alliance, NC. Visitation will be held at 10:00 am and the service at 11:00 am. Interment will follow at White Hill FWB Church Cemetery, 9204 Old Sand Hill Rd, Aurora, NC.

If you would like to make a contribution to honor Ernie’s life, please consider the Colonial Capital Humane Society or charity of your choice (in lieu of flowers).