Ernie Penny

Ernest Penny, age 65, passed away on January 11, 2025. Ernest, better known as Ernie, was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY where he lived with his parents and two sisters. At 15 he met his best friend and the love of his life, Concetta, and began dating her two years later in 1977. In their 47 years together, 42 married, they had three children, two grandchildren, and a wonderful life.
Ernie enjoyed a 36 year career in the NY Mercantile Exchange as a commodities broker followed by 8 years in various positions at Walmart. During those years, when not at work, Ernie could most often be found on the soccer field. He coached the Old Bridge Dolphins for over a decade, followed by another decade coaching at Bishop Ahr High School. Within that time he mentored countless individuals, was president of the OBGSL, and even helped lead the BGAHS team to a state championship.
Ernie's dedication to soccer began with his passion for supporting his children. He was always there for his daughters, Laura and Michelle, as they played and they were both lucky enough to get to call him 'Coach'. Ernie also made sure that he never missed a play, concert, or performance by his son, Matt. While Matt was involved in his high school music department, Ernie and Concetta relished their days as band parents. His unwavering presence, alongside Concetta, made his children feel like they could do anything in the world.
Those who knew Ernie can remember him always driving his minivan. Whether he was singing along with his family on their road trips to Disney World, or driving around a car full of his childrens' friends to take them along on a million adventures, Ernie created lifelong memories for anyone that was lucky enough to catch a ride.
In the final years of his life, Ernie found his greatest joy in the birth of his grandsons, Antonio John and Leonardo David. Though his life had been full of love as a son, brother, cousin, friend, husband, and father, there was no love he cherished more than that of the boys who called him "Grampy".
Ernie will be sorely missed by every person who was ever fortunate enough to meet him. He was the life of the party, generous to a fault, and the first person to crack a joke even in the most inappropriate circumstances.
Ernie is predeceased by his mother, Emily, his father, Donald, his father-in-law, Tony, and his brother-in-law, Larry. He leaves behind his loving wife, Concetta, his children Laura, Michelle, and Matthew, his son-in-law, Dave, his soon-to-be son-in-law, Rob, his mother-in-law, Angelina, his sisters, Donna and Cinda, his brothers-in-law Frank, Philip, and Joe, his sisters-in-law Kathy and Tricia, the lights of his life, his grandsons, Antonio John and Leonardo David, and many beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, godchildren, and friends. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ernie, please visit our floral store.