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James Marshall Ernest

10/22/1952 - 9/22/2025

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Obituary For James Marshall Ernest

James M. Ernest, 72, longtime resident of Warren, died Monday, September 22nd in Providence, RI.

Born in Newport, RI, a son of Madeline (Medeiros) Ernest and Jim Tom Ernest.

He graduated from Warren High School and received his Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from Rhode Island College. After graduating, James worked as a Performance Coordinator for the Mayor’s Office in Providence. James was a regular performer with the Rhode Island Shakespeare Company which led him to be invited to perform for the National Shakespeare Company in New York City.

A lifelong lover of the arts, he continued to perform in many community theatre and movie extra roles throughout his life. James used his talent by working as a recreational therapist and event planner for the Bronx Psychiatric Center and Episcopal Social Services. After retiring, he returned to Rhode Island where he continued to be involved in theatre and showcased his talent for singing by performing and competing in many karaoke competitions.

In addition to leaving his beloved mother, he leaves his sister Pamela (Ernest) Krawczyk, her husband Michael of Warren and nephew Kevin Krawczyk of Tampa, Florida. James also leaves his late brother Jonathan and his wife Pamela (McPeak) Ernest, niece Ashley (Ernest) Werkmeister, her husband Matthew and their son Tate of Providence. In addition, James leaves many cousins.

Arrangements are with Family’s Choice Cremation, 8 Schoolhouse Rd. Warren, RI 02885. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Three Angels Fund, threeangelsfund.org.

For directions or tributes, please visit: www.familyschoicecremation.com.

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Condolences

  • 04/24/2026

    James and I met at Bronx Center Stage in NY back in 2002 in a new Directors Series. We got along instantly and from there, came a very long, loving relationship. James was a wonderful actor and singer and he did everything with the utmost confidence. Even if a role wasn't right for him, he still went out for it with the belief that he could nail it. His confidence and hustle were very inspiring to me in my own career. I had the joy of sharing the stage with him for many years. We got very close to each other's families, attending holiday and birthday events and it was clear that there was so much love for each other and all in our circles. He and Madeline even drove down to attend my mother's funeral and James gave a beautiful speech about his relationship with my mother. James had a deep and genuine love for many people - cast mates, patients, clients and of course, his friends and beloved family. I miss our conversations and his enthusiasm about upcoming auditions and performances. I am so glad I did communicate with James several times before his passing. I will continue to miss him and I pray that he is resting peacefully in God's presence and entertaining all the spirits in Heaven with karaoke and Shakespeare! Love you, James!

  • 11/22/2025

    Jim and I were neighbors and friends when we were teenagers. He was so much fine to be with. We spent hours listening to Jimi Hendrix and the Crazy World of Arthur Brown. We would wave goodnight to each other over the hedge separating our houses. Good night, Jim. Robin Sousa Whalen.

  • 10/09/2025

    Jim was my neighbor for over 12 years. He would always look out for the other tenants. He'd bring in packages, leave the porch light on if he noticed one of us weren't home yet. He was always working. No matter the weather or late shifts,etc. He'd always wave hello and he was quiet. He'll be missed in our building. He and I talked about acting alot because I was originally from SoCal and I used to work in the entertainment industry. He would tell me how his auditions went. Acting was always his first choice of career. He loved performing in Christmas productions and Shakespeare plays. He also did some extra work around Rhode Island and Boston. Rest in peace, Jim. Chris your former neighbor

  • 10/01/2025

    Jim was a great friend to all of us at Market Street Pub, he would perform Karaoke like nobody else. We had some really great times. We know he was suffering and hopefully he is at peace now. God bless you Jim. Superbowls won't be the same with out you. Rest easy our friend. Love the Davock Girls and all of your friends here at Market St. Pub.

  • 09/29/2025

    I enjoyed Jimmy's company at family gatherings. He always had an upbeat and friendly demeanor. Having moved away, I've not gotten to see him in several years but I hold warm memories of spending time with him. My condolences to his surviving family.

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