Ernest ''Ernie'' Alvin Yana, age 90 of Ellijay, passed away on Saturday, May 23rd, 2026, with family surrounding him.

Ernest ''Ernie'' was born May 31, 1935, in Watseka, Illinois, the son of the late Harry Yana and Dora Miller Yana. Ernie farmed for 44 years in Sheldon, Illinois, before he moved to Ellijay Ga, where he then became a self-employed heavy machine operator.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Yana is preceded in death by his loving wife, Evelyn Yana; older sister, Addie Marie Dimmick; and older brother, Wilbur Yana.

Survivors include children Jim Yana (Karen), Melinda Kidwell (Joe), Melody Schad, three stepchildren Joyce Allen (Virgil), Kay Adams, Roger Adams (Mitzi), Grandchildren Robert Kidwell (Amanda), Mark Kidwell, Patrick Kidwell (Emily) Steve Yana, Carrie Yana-White (David), Eric Schad (Jessica), Elizabeth (Chris) Frazier, 8 step grandchildren and multiple great grandchildren also survive.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, May 31st at 2:00 pm from the Chapel of Bernhardt Funeral Home with Rev. Bruce Weeks officiating. Inurnment will follow in the Salem #2 Baptist Church cemetery.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, May 31st, from 12:00 pm until the funeral hour of 2:00 pm at the funeral home.

Food and Flowers will both be accepted in memory of Mr. Ernest Yana.

Bernhardt Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.