Ernest “Ernie” Penley, Jr.

We sadly announce the passing of Ernest “Ernie” Penley, Jr., 70, of Morganton, NC on Friday, October 20, 2023.

Born in Crossnore, NC on October 6, 1953, he was the son of the late Ernest Penley and Juanita Hartley Penley.

Ernie lived in Charlotte, NC and Umatilla, FL before his family moved back to the mountains of Linville, NC. He began his career in local radio broadcasting at WMNC in Morganton. He later formed American Beacon Broadcasting and was the owner of WCIS in Morganton before selling it to be begin a new career. He enjoyed several years working in furniture sales, cabinet sales, and design in Morganton and Linville. Ernie was a member of John’s River Quartet for several years and later produced and recorded his own music CDs in the recording studio he built in his home.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 49 years, Rosanne Penley; daughter, Shannon Penley Brown (Scott); grandchildren, Matthew Brown, Erin Brown, and Nicholas Brown; brothers, Edward and Walter “Buddy” Penley; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Ernie was preceded in death by sisters, Joann Penley Queen and Alta Penley Beck; special sister-in-law, Carolyn Penley (Edward), and his best friend, Jay Strickland (Becky).

Per Ernie’s wishes, there will be no funeral services. He would want you to know that he was a believer in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, and he had no fear of an earthly death. His family is comforted that he did not suffer, but they will miss him greatly.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.