Earnest Shoates, 81, left this life and went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, June 22, 2010 at the Veteran’s Hospital in Brecksville, OH., after a long illness.  He was born in Macon, GA and came to Akron in the early 50’s.  He served proudly in the U. S. Army, and he was stationed in Germany during World War II.  He played the piano, which he loved, for St. Paul A.M.E. Church and Messiah Baptist Church.  He also played for Mt. Zion Baptist Church School (Sunday School), where he also was a member, and other churches in the Akron area.  He worked for years as a presser for various cleaners in the Akron area and was well known for his excellent pressing.

Ernie was loved by his family and friends and he will be missed.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie Sr. and Mayberta Shoates; sisters, Dorothy Mae Shoates and Betty Jean Shoates; brothers, James E. Shoates and David Shoates.

He leaves to cherish his memories sisters, Lucile (Deacon Calvin) Thomas and Christine (Elder Jesse) Ruggs, all of Akron, OH., and Geraldine Townsend of Cleveland, OH; brothers, Charlie Jr. (Lillie) Shoates, Rev. Herman Shoates and Deacon Robert (Roberta) Shoates, all of Akron, OH., and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Services will be held Monday, June 28, 2010 at 12:00 PM at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 327 Cuyahoga St., Akron, OH  44310, Rev. Dr. Luther C. Cooper officiating.  Interment at Glendale Cemetery.  Friends may visit at the church from 11:00 AM until time of service.  Procession will form and condolences may be sent to 769 Nome Ave., Akron, OH  44320.