Ernest died at the Elms Center, Milford, NH after an extended illness. Born in Everett, Massachusetts to Joseph and Mary Gifford, he served in the US Marine Corp and was honorably discharged. Ernest retired from full-time employment several years ago, but continued to work seasonally for the Hudson NH Parks and Recreation Department until he fell ill in August 2013. He is survived by his former wife, 5 children and 8 grandchildren.