Ernest Nuncio Columbus

Ernest Nuncio “Ernie” Columbus, CMSgt (ret.), born February 8, 1920, in Monessen, Pennsylvania, passed away suddenly and peacefully on November 23, 2024, at the remarkable age of 104, while traveling to celebrate his great-grandson’s wedding in Arkansas. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, and patriot, Ernie joins his beloved wife of 68 years, Beulah Pauline Columbus, who predeceased him in 2012.

A true representative of the Greatest Generation, Ernie dedicated his life to service, family, and faith. His military career began with the 28th Pennsylvania National Guard, followed by active duty in the U.S. Army during World War II, where he served in England and Germany, earning the Bronze Star in 1945 for meritorious achievement in combat. After the war, he transitioned to the U.S. Air Force, where he served with distinction for 26 years, retiring in 1969 as a Chief Master Sergeant (E9), the highest non-commissioned officer ranking. He was honored multiple times, including the Outstanding NCO of the Year for the Third Air Force in 1966.

Ernie’s service extended beyond the military. While living in Grand Prairie, Texas, he served as Vice-President for the American Institute for Foreign Study for over 21 years, organizing and leading international educational trips for students and teachers, traveling to over 35 countries with Pauline, and leaving a legacy of wisdom and adventure.

In retirement, Ernie and Pauline moved to Whitney, Texas, where he was active in church life, organizing monthly nursing home birthday parties and planning group trips. Later, they relocated to Georgetown, Texas, where Ernie worshiped at the Georgetown Church of Christ, hosting a connection group in his home twice a month and serving weekly at Monday night for the Master. His faith, service, and joyful spirit were hallmarks of his life.

Put simply, Ernie was a man who loved others fully. His passion for his wife, Pauline, was a constant thread linking their nearly seven decades together.  He was a “Papaw” with boundless energy, fully present in the lives of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He truly knew each of them, and they were blessed by his joie de vivre, unwavering encouragement, and legacy of faith, adventure, and service.

Even in his later years, Ernie’s zest for life was unmatched, exemplified by skydiving at ages 100 and 104. His life was marked by resilience through loss, including the early passing of his brother Patsy and his daughter Paula when she was only 28, and the loss of sight, yet his faith and hope remained steadfast.

Ernie was preceded in death by his wife Pauline; parents Sebastian and Lillian Columbus; siblings Michael Columbus, Patsy S. Columbus, and Patty Ayers; and his daughter, Paula Crow. He is survived by his brother Philip J. Columbus, sisters Sylvia Davis, Connie Miller (Larry), and Jennie Thrailkill; daughters Lillian Orlandi and Patty Berry (Don); son-in-law Danny Crow (Bernetta); nine grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, five great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Ernie’s kindness, faith, and love for others will be remembered by all who knew him. His legacy lives on in his family and the countless lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fuller Life Family Therapy Institute, a nonprofit founded by his granddaughter to provide affordable therapy and training, or to the charity of your choice. Messages or memories may be shared in the memorial guest book at www.RamseyFuneral.com.