Javier Ernest Ybarra

Javier "Ernest" Ybarra, a man who probably fished more than he slept and may have been the unofficial mayor of family gatherings, passed away on March 29, 2026, in Terrell, Texas. Ernest was born on February 19, 1958, in Dallas, Texas, to parents, Jesse and Gloria (Rocha) Ybarra.

Ernest was a high school student of Nimitz High School in Irving, TX—where we can only imagine he honed his joke-telling skills and perfected the art of the eye-roll-inducing pun. A self-contractor by trade, he built more than just homes; he built memories (and perhaps a few mysterious “fix-it projects” that no one but he understood). Ernest somehow managed to squeeze an entire comedic career out of just being himself.

Known for his always happy and funny personality, Ernest was the kind of guy who could turn even the gloomiest day into a stand-up comedy night. There was never a dull moment with him around—unless, of course, he was fishing, because even his jokes had to wait while he pursued the elusive perfect catch. Whether it was dawn or dusk, Ernest was ready with a fishing pole in hand, and likely a quip about how "the big one got away... again."

He was a true Dallas Cowboys fan, which means he experienced a rollercoaster of emotions every season, but never lost his optimism or his capacity to joke about it. Above all, Ernest loved nothing more than being with his family and friends, soaking up the chaos and joy they brought into his life. He adored seeing his grandchildren—especially watching them participate in sports or them trying to teach him tech slang.

Ernest’s legacy is best described as lighting up the room just by showing up. His positive and optimistic spirit was infectious—except maybe when he was trying to explain why fishing at 3 a.m. was a brilliant idea. He is fondly remembered by one of his daughters (Ashley), who no doubt has stories to tell about her father's happiest moments and endless humor.

Ernest is survived by his daughter, Ashley Ybarra; daughter, Crystal Young; son, Jeremiah Garcia; son, Javier Young; sister, Annette Salinas; sister, Gina Tobek; sister, Diana Miller; half siblings, Rachel, Mona, Gilbert and Dino; granddaughter, Skyler Young; grandsons, Xavier Ybarra, Andres Ybarra, Miguel Ybarra, Mark Young, and Elijah Young; Others left to cherish his memory are numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, Jesse and Gloria Ybarra and brother Jesse Ybarra.

Ernest's presence and family values remain a beacon of love and laughter. If you ever hear the crash of a fishing line or a witty one-liner from a corner of Terrell, Texas, you just might be feeling the enduring spirit of Javier "Ernest" Ybarra. Rest easy, Ernest—you’ve finally caught the big one.