Ernest Braxton

Ernest Braxton, of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, passed away on October 12, 2026, at the age of 85. Born on June 20, 1941, in Alamance County, North Carolina, Ernest lived a life grounded in devotion to family, service to others, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

For 66 years, Ernest shared his life with his beloved wife, Ruth Ann Smith Braxton. Together they built a loving family and a lifetime of memories. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose steady presence and love will be deeply missed.

Ernest proudly served in the Army National Guard from 1958 to 1964. A successful small business owner, he approached life with dedication and an enduring commitment to the people and pursuits that mattered most to him.

A gifted high school athlete in baseball and basketball, Ernest carried his love of sports throughout his life. He coached softball and basketball for his daughters’ teams during their childhood, creating treasured memories both on and off the court. He was also an avid UNC–Chapel Hill Tar Heel fan and enjoyed watching sporting events. An enthusiastic hunter and fisherman, Ernest found joy and peace in the outdoors.

In addition to his wife, Ruth Ann, Ernest is survived by his three daughters: Janet Braxton and her husband, Vance Price; Margaret Williamson; and Tina Siemens and her husband, Robert Siemens. He is also survived by his brother, Vance Braxton; his sister, Jean Holmes; his grandchildren, Dana Normoyle and her spouse, Glenn Normoyle, Sara Kooken and her spouse, Chris Kooken, Tanner Siemens and his fiancée, Michelle Warcup, Adam Williamson, Clay Williamson, and Brandon Williamson; and five great-grandchildren and a sixth on the way.

Ernest will be remembered for his devotion to family, his love of sports and the outdoors, and the many ways he shared his time and talents with those he loved. His life leaves a lasting legacy in the family he cherished and in the memories they will carry forward.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 pm on Sunday, October 18, 2026 at Concord United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service on Sunday at the church from 2pm-3pm.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the UNC Foundation in honor of Hospice Care or to Concord United Methodist Church in Graham, North Carolina.