Loris "Ernie" Collier

Loris Erwin “Ernie” Collier, 77, of Pharsalia, died in the comfort of his home with family by his side on Thursday, October 10, 2024.

Born on December 13, 1946, in Norwich, a son of the late Eugene and Mary (Walsh) Collier. He attended Sherburne-Earlville Schools and earned his associates degree from Broome Community College. 

Ernie worked for the Chenango County Sheriff’s Department as a Deputy before his many years at the Raymond Corporation as a tool and die engineer. Following his career at Raymond’s he worked as a New York State Corrections Officer then Norwich City School District as a bus driver, mechanic, and buildings and grounds at Perry Browne and Gibson.

Ernie served as the Town of Pharsalia judge for many years, was a current town Council Member. Ernie was a friend to all and always willing to lend a hand fixing whatever was needed. He was a phone call away for whatever task was sent his direction – whether it was welding or car troubles, Ernie could save the day. He could be found on most days at Burger King for his “coffee club” and enjoyed his trips to the casino. Ernie was a former member of the Pharsalia Fire Department. More recently, he greatly enjoyed being a “Grumpy Grandpa” watching his granddaughter, Chloe, and her passion for horses. 

Ernie is survived by his daughter, Heather Felter; his biggest fan, granddaughter Chloe Fredenburg; sisters, Dawn (Jon) Anderson and Kathryn (Eric) Conant; in-laws, Martin Sayles, Margaret Wilcox, and Evelyn Sayles; lots of bonus daughters and bonus grandchildren; dear friends, Dick Nowak, David Whaley, Frank Brady, and Marilyn Hamstra; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

On July 2, 1965, Ernie married Linda Sayles, who predeceased him on April 10, 2019. Ernie was also predeceased by his sons, Russell and Trenton; step-mother, Darthy Collier; and sister, Julia Crast.

Friends and family are invited to call at the Wilson Funeral Home on Thursday, October 17, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. with a memorial service to immediately follow. Burial will occur at a future date in North Norwich Cemetery. 

Please consider memorial contributions to the college fund as established by Ernie and Linda for Chloe Fredenburg. Checks may be payable to Chloe Fredenburg or Heather Felter and directed to NBT Bank, 52 South Broad St., Norwich, NY 13815.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted with John Antonowicz of the Wilson Funeral Home.