Ernie Declay

Ernie Declay went to be the Lord on January 7th, 2024, at Haven of Lakeside in Lakeside, Arizona. Ernie was born to his parents Henry Declay and Viola Burnette on March 7, 1950.  Ernie was born and raised on Canyon Day. He was a man of many talents he loved playing basketball, volleyball and playing guitar. He was also the scorebook keeper for Canyon Day Sundevils. His passion was singing and playing guitar for his Heavenly Father, and he enjoyed listening to gospel music.                                                                             

Ernie is survived by his wife of 47 years, Judy Malone Declay; one daughter, Erma Declay Tortice; 3 stepdaughters (whom he raised as his own), Lucille Willis Tortice, Lucinda Willis Gregg, and Lucinda Willis Harvey; 2 grandsons, Isaiah Shaw, and Tayl’r Declay, 1 granddaughter, Zaniyah “Zoe” Pinal; 2 godsons, 5 goddaughters and many friends and family.

Ernie is preceded in death by his parents, Henry Declay and Viola Loas, and sisters, Hedy Walker, and Joanne Declay.

Ernie will be brought home for a one-night wake held in his honor and will take place on Thursday January 18th, 2024, at 10am located at The Canyon Day Lighthouse Family Church in Canyon Day. His Funeral will take place the following day on Friday January 19th, 2024, at 10am located at The Canyon Day Lighthouse Family Church in Canyon Day. Interment will follow at the Canyon Day Cemetery in Canyon Day, Arizona.

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