Ernest Charles Jarrett

Ernest Charles Jarrett, lovingly known as “Dad,” "Grupa", “Grandaddy,” and “Goopa” to his family, and as “Chuck,” “Ernie,” and “ECJ” to many friends and loved ones, passed away peacefully at home on May 14, 2026, at the age of 84, surrounded by the love of the family he cherished so deeply.

Funeral services will be 11:00 am Wednesday, May20, 2026 at Celebration Family Church in Fritch. There will be a visitation on Tuesday May19, 2026, at Minton Memorial Chapel in Borger.

Born on August 17, 1941, in Jefferson to John Jarrett and Erma Lee (Cooper) Jarrett, Ernest lived a life rooted in faith, quiet strength, hard work, and unwavering love for his family. He was raised in Jefferson, Texas, and later made his home in Borger, where he became a respected member of the community and a steady presence in the lives of those who knew him.

After graduating high school, Ernest attended Eastern New Mexico University before proudly serving his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he dedicated 42 years of hard work and commitment as an electrician at JM Huber, where he built a reputation for reliability, wisdom, and integrity.

On June 19, 1966, Ernest married the love of his life, Shirley Jean Brown. Together they built nearly 60 years of love, faith, partnership, and family. Their marriage became the foundation of a close-knit family that Ernest treasured deeply. To this union, two children were born: Trena Faye Jarrett and Eric Lamont Jarrett.

While Ernest accomplished many things throughout his life, his greatest joy was always his family. He loved supporting his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whether through sports, school events, conversations, or simply being present. He especially loved baseball and found great joy coaching his son and granddaughters during their younger years. His love was never loud or flashy; it was the kind of love you felt in the small moments, the dependable moments, the moments that mattered most.

When he wasn’t spending time with family, Ernest could often be found watching old westerns, listening to soulful music, or enjoying the simple comfort of being surrounded by the people he loved. He carried himself with dignity, was known as a sharp dresser, and possessed a quiet wisdom that made others naturally look to him for guidance and comfort. Though he was not a man who openly showed emotion often, his family always knew the depth of his love. On the rare occasions when tears filled his eyes, those moments became unforgettable reminders of the tenderness behind his strength.

Ernest faithfully attended New Jerusalem with his family until his health no longer allowed him to do so. His faith remained an important part of who he was throughout his life.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Shirley Jarrett; his daughter, Trena Dickson and husband Lonnie Dickson of Borger, Texas; his son, Eric Jarrett of Rowlett; and his brother, Johnny Jarrett Jr of San Deigo, California.

His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren: Jade and Sage Jarrett of Dallas; Ebony Jarrett, Wesley Jarrett, and Lakeshia Walton of Borger, Texas; Brittnay Booker of McKinney; and Tonya Jarrett of Houston. He also leaves behind beloved bonus grandchildren: Daon Dickson, Lonnie Dickson Jr., Lonika Dickson, and Latecia Moses.

Ernest was also blessed with treasured great-grandchildren including Messiah Jackson, Ja’sai Jackson, Zariah Jarrett, Abriella Jarrett, Wesley Jarrett Jr., Dasean Speed, McKenzie Booker, Madison Booker, and Montgomery Booker, along with many special bonus great-grandchildren, including Trey and Kobe Dickson, who lovingly spent precious time with him during his final days.

Ernest was preceded in death by his parents, Johnny Jarrett and Erma Lee Jarrett, and his brothers, Benny Jarrett and Thomas McCoy.