Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Ernest C. Brickus Jr.
Ernest C. Brickus Jr.
Obituary
Guest Book
Ernest Brickus Obituary
Publish in a newspaper
Ernest graduated from Coatesville High School in 1971, joined the United States Air Force in 1972, served until 1976, and remained in the Reserves until 2008 when he rose to CMSgt. He started college at Solano Community College while still in the Air Force. He then transferred to Ohio State, where he graduated in 1979 with a degree in Communications.
Ernie's lifelong work was as a medical Air Reserve Technician for Civil Service at McGuire Air Force Base. Ernie's crowning achievement along with another Coatesville native, Colonel Dr. William J. King, was to head the 514th Medical Group and be responsible for all medical reservists at McGuire AFB.
After his retirement in 2008, Ernie developed a love for gardening and travel. Ernie had a lifelong love of music, dance, and movies on the big screen. He was also a diehard and devoted fan of the Philadelphia Eagles and the 76ers.
Ernie had a one-of-a-kind personality that brightened the lives of every person he met. He has mentored and guided friends, family, and colleagues.
Ernie and Suzanne had a wonderful and committed relationship for many years. Ernie loved and was devoted to his three daughters, who adored him. Ernie has been a loyal and cherished friend to many.
Ernest leaves behind his long-time love and companion, Suzanne L Weilminster; three daughters, Tishara and Charles Landi, Tamara and Benjamin Ehrgood, and Tia and Solomon Jones; his grandchildren, Dre Brickus, Tiara Williams, Gianna Jones, Whyatt and Willow Ehrgood; siblings, Terilyn Brickus, Marcus Majors, Larry (Muscle) and Vandora Brickus, Bruce Brickus, and Jeff and Shari Brickus. Ernest is also survived by his ex-wife, Vanessa Roberts-Brickus, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Ernest is predeceased by his son, Ernest Charles Brickus III.
Relatives and friends are invited to Ernie's visitation on Saturday, August 26, 2023 from 11AM-1PM at the Mount Laurel Home for Funerals, 212 Ark Road, Mount Laurel, NJ 08054, where the Celebration of Ernie's life will follow at 1PM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Ernie's memory to National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation at https://www.npcf.us/memorial-giving/.
Ernie's service will be livestreamed at 1PM on Saturday, August 26, 2023 at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqHO67wpBsUSkgPDUxZiBw.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Willie Johnson
August 12, 2025
RIP Ernie, we all miss you, it was a pleasure being your friend and knowing you for many years.
Timothy Kent, DMD
August 30, 2023
I want to convey my heartfelt condolences to the Brickus family on the passing of CMSGT, Ernest Brickus. There is so much to say about Chief Ernie. But it expressed right here and so beautifully by so many. All I can say I agree with all of them. Chief Ernie was a special human being. He possessed strength, integrity, discipline, compassion and love. He was the Face, the Heart and Soul of the 514th Medical Reserve Unit. May Ernie rest in Peace now!. He will be missed by many whose lives he touched.
Karen Morgan
August 28, 2023
My sincere prayers and condolences are extended to your family at difficult time. May his ray of sunshine continue beam on
God bless you all.
Jennifer H Kim
August 26, 2023
I have to say... to the family and loved ones of Chief Brickus... THANK YOU SO MUCH for sharing him with the so many he made a positive impact on. I had the pleasure of service of serving with Chief (and in the minimal 3 years I had the pleasure of knowing him) ... he had made such a positive change & impact on my life (career & personal)... I would not be the woman I am today if it were not for his wisdom and guidance. He will forever live with my day to day decision making process. I am so blessed and know so many have been touched to have been honored by his presence and mentorship, You will forever be in my heart, Never forgotten. Love you, Chief Brickus. Sincerely, Jennifer Kim (Retired SMSgt)
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Greg Jones, Retired CMSgt 76th ARS
August 26, 2023
Today, I just received word that Chief Master Ernest Brickus Jr. has gone to be with the Lord. I am very sad to hear this unfortunate news. My prayers and condolences go out to the family and many friends of Chief Brickus. He was the face of the 514th Medical Group and he has always served with honor, pride, and ensured his team provided outstanding service to the members of the 514th Reserve Unit. Ernie was truly a Chief and not an E-9. He took care of his people and if you ever needed help, he was always there to help in any way possible. Chief Brickus will be missed but his legacy will continue because of his leadership and mentorship to others. Rest in Peace "My Brother."
Retired CMSgt Greg Jones
Albert Diamond
August 26, 2023
Coming from another unit to the 514th you are unsure about fitting in, finding one"s footing, experiencing great leadership, a guiding light, someone to trust and learn from. A new home, Chief B, you were my mentor. Thank you so much.
Felicia T Harris; former 514th.
August 26, 2023
We used to joke about how he and Chyrl "raised me " in my military career. He is my brother and he knows I love him. Suzanne, Tia, Tammy, Dale, you all know he raised a lot of us, and I will forever be thankful for having him in my life.
Donnie Richardson
August 26, 2023
Sad to hear about the passing of our beloved comrade. Sending prayers to his family and friends.
Egeria Mcgibboney
August 26, 2023
Family my love and deepest condolences to you all
May God comfort you all at this time of memories and sadness sending all my love
Shackilca "SHAQ" Floyd
August 26, 2023
This one hits hard. Words can not describe what you have been in my life. You are not just a man but THE MAN! Our own Music Man , Dance Machine and our Groovy OG! You were our Military Dad who showed us love, understanding and compassion. But when we needed it Tough Love with a smoothness that made us want to be better people. Tou were a man of giving us crazy young Airman second chances and sound advice. Every year on my birthday I would not answer just to have you singing to me on my voicemail so I can listen to it over and over again. Thank you for being my mentor, my friend, my Dad and my inspiration! I love you so much and will miss you in the physical but never spiritual because you are still my Guardian Angel just in the sky now. Love Alwsys your Brown Eyes aka Shaq
JRM
August 26, 2023
Chief, thank you for leading the way when I was a young A1C. I had the best pillars in humanity and leadership in you and Chief Ruff, before I even knew it. God Bless You Chief.
Chief Jennifer Moses (Higgs)
Mel Simpson
August 26, 2023
Chief,
Honestly, I don´t know where or how to begin what I want to express. However, I know I need to allow
my emotions to flow and let you know who you are to me. I specifically used the present tense because
you will forever be here with, around, and through me.
It´s extremely difficult to formulate the words I feel without breaking down in tears. Although our
relationship only spanned twenty-three years, I never thought the day would come when I would have
to say goodbye. I know this goodbye is only temporary, but it´s something I didn´t think would happen
so soon. During twenty-three years of knowing you, you have been instrumental in my growth as a
man. Your strength, brutal honesty (call it like it is), and guidance have been consistent in building a
solid bond and relationship. I will forever cherish and hold you dear in my heart.
Like many whose lives you´ve touched, the energy you shared is beyond the surface. Whether the
encounter or interaction with you was an hour, a day, or years, the feelings and sentiments were always
the same. Your energy and aura were consistent. Your presence and intention were felt.
Dana Brickus
August 26, 2023
Close to my heart and you are in my prayers. Sending Love and Condolences
Dana Rashon and family
Josephine Almonte
August 26, 2023
Chief, you made me a better officer with your advice, experience and wisdom. You were always my 'go-to' Chief. Rest peacefully. We'll all miss you.
Sending prayers for you, Suzanne and family.
Tee Tee Boone
August 26, 2023
What a great birthday party this was. He danced all night with his girls and Suzanne.
I was introduced to the Brickus family in 1982 by way of Tami and have felt like family ever since. Growing up some of the best memories were hanging at the house in Mt Laurel. Tami and I was always getting in to something making a mess. From trying to cook, to painting. Poochie would come in the house and be like OMG, WHAT ARE YALL DOING NOW! lol..
Poochie was the epitome of AWESOME DAD!!! He will truly be missed.
--Love you Tami!
Mel Simpson
August 26, 2023
Chief,
Honestly, I don´t know where or how to begin what I want to express. However, I know I need to allow my emotions to flow and let you know who you are to me. I specifically used the present tense because you will forever be here with, around, and through me.
It´s extremely difficult to formulate the words I feel without breaking down in tears. Although our relationship only spanned twenty-three years, I never thought the day would come when I would have to say goodbye. I know this goodbye is only temporary, but it´s something I didn´t think would happen so soon. During twenty-three years of knowing you, you have been instrumental in my growth as a man. Your strength, brutal honesty (call it like it is), and guidance have been consistent in building a solid bond and relationship. I will forever cherish and hold you dear in my heart.
Like many whose lives you´ve touched, the energy you shared is beyond the surface. Whether the encounter or interaction with you was an hour, a day, or years, the feelings and sentiments were always the same. Your energy and aura were consistent. Your presence and intention were felt in every interaction. You were truly rare in every sense. To describe you in short, you were the disciplinarian parent who was tough to the core but well respected, loved, and admired. No matter how tough you were, you were never feared but adored. Everything about you was loved. You were influential in the lives of many; directly responsible for changing the course and path for many and if you were to be repaid, no amount of money would be sufficient.
You were not only the patriarch to your immediate family, but an entire tribe that extended across the country and possibly the globe. For me, you were a father figure, a staple, and a beacon. You were my lighthouse - at times all I needed was to hear your voice and I knew which direction to go, and what decision had to be made. More than sound advice, you gave strength, confidence, and clarity in so many things that I will surely miss. You were my hero in the physical realm, but now, you are my angel in the spiritual. Therefore, I know you will always be near and close to me.
Chief, I love you more than life - you are and will always be important to me. I´m proud to be part of your legacy.
Rest in perfect peace, King! You deserve it.
Always,
Mel Simpson (I am who I am because of you)
Tom Pizzolo
August 25, 2023
I still remember, at the age of 38, showing up the Friday night before my first UTA as a new member of the AF Reserve. I was really nervous and wondering what the hell I had gotten myself into. I went into the unit and you were the only one there getting people ready for deployments. I will always be thankful for helping me navigate that beginning of what would become a wonderful AF career for me. You were the rock of the 514 AMDS and it's no wonder that people AF wide knew you and respected you. I know you are enjoying what surely is a better place but we all here will miss you very much. Condolences to the Brickus family and Suzanne.
Valerie Alexander
August 24, 2023
Chief...
I remember your tough, no-nonsense way of handling things. As well as your deep voice and expressions. I was proud to work with your unit and grateful to have had the opportunity. Your uniqueness helped to make you a fun, yet effective & hardworking leader. Thank you for helping me with my career. Rest in Paradise, Chief. My heartfelt condolences and prayers to all of your loved ones.
Mikey Brickus
August 24, 2023
Dear Family
So sorry we couldn´t be in attendance as we are in the UK. We want to send all of our love hugs and prayers to comfort Dale, Tammy, Tia, Aunt Nessa and Suzanne.
One could say my Uncle Poochie is the reason I exist. He was a friend of my Father and the Big Brother of my mother. He was how they met.
My Uncle and I had some great memories and talks going back to My Adolescence visits to Columbus ,Cleveland and Maple Shade. He was Always playing them vinyl records But Earth Wind and Fire will forever be in my head.. He even picked me and the Fellas up and would take us to Eagles Training camp every Summer. As a young adult we would have Real talks about the ladies no details lol to the ups and downs of when I had Legal issues. There was nothing I couldn´t talk to Uncle Poochie about. One couldn´t ask for a better Uncle. You will be missed Unc! But today we Celebrate and Salute you.
Rest Easy Uncle Pooch.
Love Nephew Mikey & Cely
Marlene Walker
August 24, 2023
So very sorry for the loss of your father. Your family is in my prayers.
Robin 4
August 22, 2023
I am so saddened by your passing. One of the most real and fair leaders I have ever met on my Air Force journey. I remember my first day at 514 AMDS in June of 2004 and you said ro me "Airman Smith, I have enough divas in the hen house!" You will definitely be missed.
Michael Brickus
August 22, 2023
Dear Family
We want to send all of our love hugs and prayers to comfort Dale, Tammy, Tia, Aunt Nessa and Suzanne.
One could say my Uncle Poochie is the reason I exist. He was a friend of my Father and the Big Brother of my mother. He was how they met.
My Uncle and I had some great memories and talks going back to My Adolescence visits to Columbus to Maple Shade. He was Always playing them vinyl records But Earth Wind and Fire will forever be in my head.. He even picked me and the homies up and would took us to Eagles Training camp every year. As a young adult we would have Real talks about the ladies no details lol to the ups and downs of when the Law was on my tail. There was nothing I couldn’t talk to my Uncle about. One couldn’t ask for a better Uncle.
Rest Easy Uncle Pooch.
Love Nephew Mikey & Cely
Charlie & Debbie Landi
August 22, 2023
So sorry. Much sympathy for your loss. We are never ready to lose a loved one. May he RIP and always be remembered
Charles Cobbertt Jr
August 22, 2023
Chief, I remember when you suggested that I look at being the 1sgt of the AMDS. One of the best jobs I ever had. Thanks for seeing that in me. You have always been an inspiration to me. I salute you!
Bobbie D. Bassett
August 20, 2023
Chief Brickus was the first person I spoke to and met at McGuire AFB when I was searching for a new home unit after my Wing at Willow Grove was deactivated. We spoke by phone and I remember his deep voice. He was very positive, down to earth and patient. He listened to me and answered whatever questions I asked. When I joined the 514th, he welcomed me with open arms. I witnessed his professionalism and leadership as a senior member of our squadron. He was very well respected within the 514th. To the family of Chief Brickus, I´m so sorry for your loss. I will keep you all in prayer.
Joan Gregg
August 19, 2023
Chief Brickus was one of the first Sargents I met after my initial training. Up on the 4th floor of Walston. So full of energy.
Theresa M Smith, retired SMsgt USAFR
August 19, 2023
Chief,
It has been my privilege and honor to have known and work along side such a wonderful person such as yourself. You brought out the very best in me and supported me in every step of my military journey. You gave me a home unit without asking me to give up anything in return. Words could never describe how much you touched my life and provided such laughter, joy, and wisdom throughout my career. You will be missed and forever remembered.
Love
Surita Hopkins
August 19, 2023
My deepest condolences to Vaunita Roberts and the Entire Family and Friends of Poochie. Thank you for your Services and RIP ERNEST BRICKUS 3RD
Dawn Firsing-Paris
August 19, 2023
I came to McGuire as a young airman. Chief Brickus was the rock of the AMDS, and always smiling, greeting and ending each day with humor. He mentored all of the young airmen and helped mold us into who we are today. Chief, you are irreplaceable. My sincere condolences to your family and many friends. Rest in peace Chief.
SEBRENA FLAGG-BRIGGS (Retired CMSgt)
August 19, 2023
Chief Brickus you were such a great-spirited guy and I will always remember you sharing your words of wisdom and your infectious great smile! You always gave those two things to folk. Whether seeing you in person or on social media I'd smile because the memories of us serving together came to me. When we say "you will be missed" we mean it! Rest in peace my Chief military brother!
(Retired) Chief Sebrena Flagg-Briggs
Dr Michael Palmer
August 19, 2023
This is very, very sad news. When I transferred to Maguire, I remembered him when I would visit the medical clinic. He was always welcoming, always attentive, and very supportive when I ultimately went to Maguire. His presence was missed when he retired as it will be missed for eternity. My thoughts and prayers are to his friends family. Chief, please rest in peace.
Roland (Ace) Brown
August 19, 2023
My Heart goes out to the family
Giovanni Wells
August 19, 2023
This is very sad news.
My deepest condolences to his family and friends. He was a great leader and mentor to me during my time at the 514th. He was easy to talk to and made me feel like I mattered regardless of my rank. I will miss him. Aim high Chief!
SMsgt Tonja Ellison
August 19, 2023
My Condolences and prayers to the family.
chief Brickus you will never be forgotten we love you but God loved you more. The journey I experienced with you (camping) and every thing you thought me will not be forgotten you were my mentor, my family and my friend
David Massa, USAFR, Retired
August 19, 2023
RIP Chief Brickus. You were the heart and soul of the 514 AMDS. No one knew more about the AF Reserve, or did more for all of us, than you. Condolences to your family and loved ones.
Fathiyeh Baker
August 19, 2023
Chief Ernie Brickus, was a good man and truly valued and loved by everyone.
It´s so sad he was too young.
Times flies so fast, but not memories we all shared with him at 514th Budget Office McGuire AFB.
Praying for his family.
God Bless his soul.
RIP my friend
Myra Hawkins, retired SMSgt USAFR
August 19, 2023
I could check all the boxes below concerning Chief Brickus. Family, friend, work, other because he was all that! Chief I´ll always remember our talks and laughs and all the good times we shared. Thank you for always being a supportive and listening ear and always being there to support me for my accomplishments. I never missed hearing from you on a birthday and surely I´ll miss that now. What I´ll miss especially is you calling me "Myra love" rest well my friend and warrior. You were outstanding!
Joyce Hutson
August 19, 2023
Chief Brickus, you've touched soooooo many lives. You've given hope, strength, wisdom, knowledge and peace to those who've you shared your life with. But most of all you gave YOU. Your time, talent, love, paitence, understanding from your heart and soul. You will be missed and yes, we are hurting and sad BUT let us rejoice and be glad WE had Chief Ernest C. Brickus to share our life with as he shared his with us.
Saundra Barrett
August 18, 2023
I was soooooo saddened to hear of the passing of Chief Brickus! He was such an inspiration to all who knew him - an awesome mentor, supervisor, and leader. He was an incredibly smart and thoughtful man. It was an honor and privilege to have worked with him. May his memory live on forever. RIP Chief Brickus
Desaray "Dez" Forthner
August 18, 2023
No more pain, no more suffering, and no more worries. RIP my friend. You will truly be missed in other words gone but never forgotten. Thank you for mentoring me with my military career. Becoming NCOIC to joining the ranks of the retired veterans after 30 yrs. It was an honor to have served with you Chief Brickus !!
Willie Johnson
August 18, 2023
It´s very sad to hear that Ernie passed. He and I were good Military friends for over 30 years, we will miss him very much. My condolences go out to the family.
Christine Androwick Fredericksen
August 18, 2023
RIP Chief, your infectious smile helped through many a hard time. It was an honor to serve with you.
Showing 1 - 45 of 45 results
212 Ark Road, Mount Laurel, NJ 08054-6309
Make a Donation
in Ernest Brickus's name
People and places connected with Ernest
Recent Obituaries
How to support Ernest's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Ernest Brickus's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored anonymously