Ernest A. "Sonny" Stokes

Sonny went home to celebrate with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on April 11, 2006. He was surrounded by his loving family and left this earth in peace. Funeral Services will be held Wednesday April 19, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Peter RCCM 510 E. Brundage Ln., Bakersfield, CA. a viewing and visitation is scheduled for Tuesday April 18, 2006 from 1:00 - 6:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Beloved Care Funeral Services. 115 18th Bakersfield, CA. A hour of Mediation/Wake will be conducted from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. Sonny was born to Ernest and Eva Stokes in Memphis, TN on May 27, 1946. The family relocated to Bakersfield, CA when Sonny was twelve years old. On Christmas Day 1964, Sonny united in marriage to Rita Oliver. To this union one daughter was born, Andretta. On November 11, 1975, he married his present wife Charlotte. To this union two children were born. One girl and one boy, Chaka and Marcellus. Sonny was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. There was never a day that we did not know that he loved us. He loved his family and was happiest when we were all together. Sonny worked over ten years for Sunland Refinery and over ten years for Kern City Civic Assoc. He also established, owned and operated "The Burger Mine". First in Tehachapi, CA and later in Bakersfield on Union Ave. He was known for his great tasting burgers and everyone loved his famous BBQ. Sonny had an infectious laugh, one of a kind personality. sense of humor and a genuine love for all people. He truly enjoyed life. He also had another Love- MUSIC! He wrote many beautiful songs that he and his band "Sole Purpose" performed. His CD "God's Calling" continues to be listened to and enjoyed by many. One of his greatest pleasures was performing his music with his band. Sonny was preceded in death by his mother, father and a special niece, Renee; He is survived by his wife Charlotte, daughters Andretta (Kenny) and Chaka, son Marcellus (Carolina), six grandchildren Joshua, Anisha. Tylor, Isaac, Max, and one on the way; Big sister Earlene of Riverside, CA who he affectionately called "Baby Sis" and big brother Jack(Pro Bowler) of Chicago, IL; three nieces Stella. Cheryl. and Etta of Riverside, CA; and Andre (Maria) of Anaheim and his mother-in-law Rosa, whom he loved dearly. Sonny also loved his son-in-law Kenny like a son and they referred to each other as "My best friend", Kenny affectionately called him "Dad". A special thank you to Ralph of Riverside who was like a big brother to him, came to visit him every weekend and drove Ms. Daisy (Baby Sis). The family would like to give a special thanks to: John, Pam, and Amber for all the beautiful cards you sent each and every week. To Earlene and the Riverside crew for your weekend visits, your rarely missed a weekend. To Rita, for taking him to his appts and making him chicken soup. To Ollie for calling every week and asking "what does Sonny want to eat". To Kaiser (Dr. Tuns Office), Memorial Hospital Nurses, Halls Ambulance and Optimal Hospice for your love and care during our time of need and a very special thanks to all those who prayed for him, he loved the Lord and all your prayers were greatly appreciated. Sonny was loved by so many people and will be missed, but God loved him best and knew exactly what he was doing when he took Sonny home. For God only takes the best! Ernest A. "Sonny" Stokes Mar. 27, 1946 - April 11, 2006 Beloved Care Funeral Services Legacy.com