The death of Ernest Perry Vail, age 77 , husband of Irma (Paisley) Vail, of Saint John, NB, and formerly of Sussex, occurred at his residence on February 12, 2012. He was born on August 13, 1934, in Cody’s, NB, the son of the late Harold and Phoebe (Perry) Vail. Ernie, as a young man, worked on a farm in Cumberland Bay. In the 70’s he went to trade school and became a "Bricklayer" by trade and did chimneys and fireplaces on the side. He loved the Lord with all his heart and church was his life. Music was a huge part of Ernie’s life. Among his treasures you would find a guitar, banjo, violin, mandolin, button accordion, keyboard and a mouth organ. He always played with the Church Orchestra. Drawing was another passion. He never left the restaurant without some sort of sketch on the placemat. In 1992 he fulfilled a dream and published a book of his cartoons. His beautiful vegetable garden was a favorite hobby and was admired and enjoyed by many. His two little companions, Angel and Penny had fun romping and playing while he tended it. Walking with his brother Fred, he met many lifelong friends. Ernie always had a story to tell. He loved his family unconditionally. His greatest treasures came in the form of two blonde haired boys, he loved with all his heart. All they had to say was "Papa can we….? It made him proud to see his grandsons’ interest in music. Ernest is survived by his wife Irma; daughter Datha and Jeff Leavitt of Sussex Corner; grandsons Daniel and Bradley; brother Fred Vail of Saint John; sister Elizabeth Vail of Apohaqui; sisters-in-law Rayma Paisley, Anne Johnston, Rosalie Paisley and Helen Kinney; brother-in-law Rev. Harold Kinney; several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his brother Frank; father-in-law and mother-in-law Rev. Sam and Mary Paisley; brothers-in-law Bill and Arnold Paisley and Richard Johnston. He is resting at Calvary Pentecostal Church, Sussex, NB, with visiting on Thursday from 3 to 5 and 6 to 8 pm. Funeral service conducted by Rev. Lawrence Morin, will be held from Calvary Pentecostal Church, Sussex, at 2:00 pm. on Friday, February 17, 2012. Donations to a Living Memorial or the memorial of the donor’s choice would be appreciated. Condolences to the family may be made through www.sherwoodsfuneralhome.com Sherwood’s Funeral Home and Life Tribute Centre (839-2156), 18 Scovil Road, Norton, NB, are entrusted with arrangements.