Darlene Ernesti

Darlene Ann Ernesti, 89, of Columbus died Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the Josie Harper Hospice House in Omaha.

Mass of Christian Burial is 10:30 a.m. Thursday, July 2, 2026, at St. Isidore Catholic Church. There will be a vigil service Wednesday at 4:00 p.m. followed by visitation from 5:00-7:00 p.m. all at the church. Burial is in Roselawn Cemetery.

Darlene was born in West Point, Nebraska on March 28, 1937 to John and Marge Ernesti. She dedicated her life to serving Christ and His Church as a music teacher, liturgist, and choir director. Darlene was a secular Benedictine (OSB) and had a special love for the Blessed Mother and the Holy Rosary.

Darlene was preceded in death by her parents as well as her sister Sharon Rayburn and brother David John Ernesti.

Darlene is survived by sister-in-law Joyce Ernesti (Easton, PA) and sister Barb Schumacher and husband Bill (Omaha, NE).She is also survived by her best friend Betty Lee Van Dyke (Columbus, NE). She leaves behind many dear nieces and nephews as well as great-nieces and nephews and many friends.

In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to St. Isidore Catholic Church or Christ the King Priory in Schuyler, Nebraska (Benedictine monastery), or Masses for the deceased.