Obituaries

Irene Barbara Ernest

Irene Barbara “Buffy” Ernest
Irene Barbara “Buffy” Ernest

Irene Barbara Ernest of Greenport, better known to her family and friends as ‘Buffy,’ died peacefully Feb. 21, surrounded by her closest family and friends. She was 89. 

The daughter of Ana Maria (Tedeschi) and Frank Buffalo, she was born Oct. 11, 1926, in Brooklyn. She was known as ‘Miss Nickel,’ a childhood nickname derived from her maiden name Buffalo, which later morphed into ‘Buffy’ and stayed with her for life.

Buffy will always be remembered for her extraordinary intelligence, creativity, wit, charm, style, humor and outstanding culinary skills. She was a lover of Manhattan, the English language when well-spoken, art, fashion, design, classic film and anything and everything connected to animals.

In June, 1954, she married Herbert Ernst in New York City.

Buffy attended the Pratt Institute in New York City and lived her favorite years raising her family, walking her Vizlas in Central Park, creating amazing painted furniture designs and cooking up a storm in her professionally appointed kitchen.

Predeceased by the younger of her two sons, Mark Anthony Ernest; five sisters and one brother, Buffy is survived by her husband; her daughter, Lisa Ernest Mierop; her son, Ethan; granddaughter, Emma Mierop and her niece, Elaine Giamboi. She will be deeply missed by all who loved her and cherish her memory.

Burial will take place at 11 a.m. today, Feb. 25, at Ferncliff Cemetery in Westchester, N.Y. A memorial service will take place at a later date and time in Greenport.

Memorial donations may be made to the Church of St. Vincent Ferrer, 869 Lexington Ave., New York, NY 10065, PETA or any animal rescue charity.

Arrangements were entrusted to Horton-Mathie Funeral Home in Greenport.

This is a paid notice.