Ernest "Ernie" Louis Paoletti

Ernest Louis Paoletti, 97, of Dover, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2026, at Ohio’s Hospice Truman House, holding the hand of his loving wife of 40 years.

Born in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, on July 23, 1928, he was the son of the late George Dominic and Anna (Camerson) Paoletti. Ernie proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1950 to 1952. Following his service, he became a successful businessman, spending 37 years self-employed as the owner and operator of 51 Auto Parts.

He was a member of the Dover American Legion, the New Philadelphia VFW, and St. Joseph Catholic Church. Ernie valued community, faith, and service, and carried those principles throughout his life.

On September 14, 1985, he married the former Phyllis Marie Ciafardone, with whom he shared a devoted and loving marriage.

Ernie and Phyllis had a rich and blessed life together. They loved to travel, dance and spend countless hours on the golf course and beach. Additionally, Ernie was an avid card player, excelled at Poker, and treasured time spent with his family.

Ernie is survived by his wife, Phyllis; his son, Nicholas (Christina) Paoletti of New Jersey; his step-daughter, Teri (Randy) Jones of Dover; and his step-sons, CJ (Loretta) Caligiuri and Brian (Deonne) Caligiuri of Texas. He is also survived by his brother, Robert (Jeryl Lynn) Paoletti of Pennsylvania.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Cynthia Susan Paoletti; brothers, George, Vincent and Richard Paoletti; and his sisters, Mary Louise Paoletti and Gloria Paoletti.

He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren: Heather (Ryan) Enos, Novah Enos, Brandon Caligiuri, Jaclyn Caligiuri, Annalena Moore, Michael Moore, Shelby Moore, Zak (Cori) Patterson, Bret (Katie) Patterson, Catherine (Caleb) Jones, and Jessica (Luke) West; and his great-grandchildren, Zoe Lynn Patterson, Braylen Karl and Mia Rose Caligiuri.

Private services will be held. Cremation care has been entrusted to Geib’s Tuscarawas Valley Crematory.

Memorial contributions in Ernie’s memory may be directed to Ohio’s Hospice Truman House, 716 Commercial Ave SW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.