Ernie III Anderson/Truett

Ernie Anderson/Truett III Fall, 2009 – June 1, 2025

Ernie Anderson/Truett III, co-patriarch of the City of Cayce House of Cats (CHOC), left us peacefully on June 1, 2025, at the age of 15, due to complications from lymphoma. Ernie was a beloved member of the CHOC family and will be deeply missed.

Born in 2009 at the State Museum Feral Colony, Ernie was one of three kittens rescued alongside his brother, Carmine, and sister, GreyGrey, who passed away earlier this year. Their journey to a loving home began in February 2010, when they were welcomed into the nurturing environment of CHOC, where they thrived under the care of Stoney and Valerie.

Ernie was the third in a cherished line of Ernies that has graced CHOC for the past 42 years. He was a “tuxedo” cat – meaning he had a bi-color pattern that resembles a tuxedo. Shakespeare and Beethoven had tuxedo cats – so Ernie was in good company.

The CHOC household relied on Ernie to be the town “goofball”. He would walk on the countertops and suddenly fall off. If you picked him up, he would scramble onto your back so you could parade him around on his “throne” like the King he was. And he had the ubiquitous "Ernie look" - those big, round eyes full of wonder! He never got upset. He got along with everyone.

Ernie’s gentle nature allowed him to forge bonds with everyone around him. He was a source of comfort and companionship, and his easygoing demeanor made him a beloved friend to his housemates, including Blackie, Bandito, and, of course, his brother, Carmine. In his final days, the love and care from his family and friends provided him with the warmth he so generously shared throughout his life.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Sunset Animal Clinic for their compassionate palliative care during Ernie’s illness. Their support, along with the unwavering love from his housemates, ensured that Ernie felt cherished until the very end.

Ernie, you have left paw prints on our hearts that will never fade. Your goofy ways and loving spirit will be remembered fondly by Papa Stoney and Mama Valerie, who loved you dearly and will miss you immensely. As your brother Carmine carries on your legacy, we take comfort in knowing that you are now on a new adventure across the Rainbow Bridge.

Thank you for the joy you brought into our lives, dear Ernie. Until we meet again, rest peacefully, big guy…