Ernest Paul Dronnet, 86, Orange

Ernest Paul Dronnet, 86, of Orange, Texas, passed away on May 18, 2024, at home with his family. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, May 25, 2024, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Officiating will be Deacon Melvin Payne. Burial will follow at Autumn Oaks Cemetery in Orange. Visitation will begin prior to the service at 9:00 a.m., Saturday, May 25, 2024, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Born in Sulphur, Louisiana, on January 3, 1938, he was the son of Paul Dronnet and Rose (Henry) Dronnet. He went to school at Little Cypress CISD in Orange. Ernest worked at Inland Orange Paper Mill for over 36 years and retired in 2004. He enjoyed shrimping and gambling. Ernest loved his cajun heritage and it’s music. He loved his family very much and he will be deeply missed. He is preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Rose Dronnet; brother, Cecil Dronnet; sisters, Anita Little and Gail Bergeron; and son, Stephen Dronnet. He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Jean Dronnet; daughter, Sharon Hicks and husband, Roy; grandchildren, Tyler Bimle, Whitney Dronnet, and Nicholas Dronnet; three great-grandchildren; as well as other loving family and friends. Special thanks to employees of Gentiva Hospice, Lauren, Cathy, Jody, and Sharon. Serving as pallbearers will be Raymond Allen, Jason Freeman, Bryan Sandlin, Jay Young, Manuel Savala, and Nick Dronnet. Honorary pallbearers are Ray Wilkinson, Carlo Morris, and Fred Collins.

Suits are not expected to be worn at the service. Please come as you are, as that is how Ernest loved you.