Ernest was born July 10, 1949, in Marion, South Carolina, the son of James and Arletha Conner.

Ernest graduated from Johnakin High School in 1968, then joined the Military, assigned to Military Intelligence. During that time he completed two years, studying Political Science, at Francis Marion University.

Ernest retired as Staff Sergeant and served in the Army National Guard from 1974 to 1995. In 1990 he was deployed to Desert Storm. He has also worked as a Machine Operator, Department Supervisor, and Material Specialist.

On June 4, 1977, Ernest married Brenda Leonard. They have one daughter, Brennest Arletha.