Ernest Stokes II

Ernest Stokes II, of Ellicott City, Maryland, passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 5, 2025, at the age of 79 following a challenging year of strokes and stroke-induced dementia.

Ernest is survived by his devoted wife, Lola Stokes, and his beloved children, Michael Stokes, Adrienne Stokes, Tinsley Stokes, Lauren Lewchuk and Morgan Lewchuk. He was also a proud Dad-dad to Addison, London, Audrey and Carter, who brought him immeasurable joy.

Born to the late Audrey Tinsley and Harvey Stokes, Ernest was younger brother to the late Ronald Stokes.

Raised in Baltimore MD, Ernest earned a Theoretical Mathematics degree at Morgan University, where he became a lifelong member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Ernest proudly served in U.S. Army, serving as an Air Defense Artillery Officer during the Vietnam War and then went on to earn his Doctor of Jurisprudence from the University of Maryland School of Law.

Despite a demanding career, at Mercantile Bankshares Corporation, Erni remained deeply committed serving his community through the Maryland Home Improvement Commission, and the American Red Cross.

Known to his friends as Erni, and his family as Buggs, he was a true renaissance man; An eccentric with a keen eye for detail and endless intellectual curiosity. Ernest was a prolific watercolor painter, enjoyed table tennis, playing piano, elaborate woodworking, and was happiest fishing with his grandkids. Erni will be remembered for his sense of humor, strong will, and the love shown through acts of kindness.

Erni requested that no memorial or funeral service be held, however in his memory, donations made to the American Stroke Association are greatly appreciated. Tribute Donation Form: Heart.org