Ernest "Ernie" Everett Mattingly

Ernest (Ernie) Everett Mattingly, 41 of Peru passed away at his home on March 18, 2024.

He was born August 13, 1982 in Kokomo, Indiana to Rita (Mattingly) Latta and Rick Latta, who later took him as his son during their wedding ceremony. He was a 2002 graduate of Maconaquah High School. He excelled in high school where he felt the most comfortable in his life.

His nickname was "Big Ern" and he lived up to that name. He was a gentle giant.

Ernie had many interests, playing cards with his friends at Goblin Games was one of them. He loved playing games online and was a very avid reader. His favorite Pokemon was Snorlax, it reminded him of himself.  He watched a lot of Youtube and streaming. He loved going to The Barn in Kentucky when we had Family reunions. As he got older he became more of a recluse and leaving the house was hard for him, to the point he never really left his home for the last 7 years of his life. He loved when people he knew came over to visit but could not handle strangers. So if you know someone like Ernie please visit often, they just feel safe in their home but crave human contact.

He is survived by his parents Rick and Rita Latta. His Brother Robert (Amanda) Latta, Okeechobee, FL, his sister Malyssa (Mikey) Brown, Peru, Indiana. His Aunt Rebecca Latta, Macy, Indiana. His nieces Emily and Raelynn and Nephew Brandon. His very special Aunt Suzy (Harry) Plotner, Amboy, Indiana. His Uncle Chuck Mattingly, Bunker Hill, Indiana. Many cousins and great aunts and uncles. Godparents Chuck (Deb) Kemp, Haines City, Florida. He also left behind many friends who were more like brothers and sisters to him.

Ernie was preceded in death by his Papaw and Grandma; Everett and Edrie Mattingly. His Uncle Mearl Latta. His Uncle Micheal Mattingly. And his second Mom Kelly Ailor Carpenter. His Grandpa Robert Latta.

Ernie will be cremated as he did not like people gawking at him when he was alive so I will not humiliate him with a funeral, but there will be a Celebration of his life later, time and place will be posted on Facebook. 

I ask that you please share stories about Ernie for me to read. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.

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