Ernest Eugene Deters Jr

Ernest Eugene Deters Jr., 76, of Hackettstown, NJ passed away peacefully on September 20, 2026 at home with his loving family by his side.

Ernest was born on July 3, 1950 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to the late Ernest E. and Helen Deters.

Residing the majority of his life in the Greater Philadelphia area, he was a graduate of Abington High School, Class of 1968. He married the love of his life, Linda (nee; Komada). Together they raised two sons. Ernest proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1968 through 1972. During his time at sea, he proudly became a 2 time Golden Shellback, not just a badge but a symbol of having accomplished something rare and deeply rooted in naval tradition. A Golden Shellback is a sailor who has crossed the Equator and the International Date Line simultaneously. It represents resilience, brotherhood respect and tradition. The title represents an achievement that only a select few will ever attain. Ernest remarkably attained this twice. He was employed at Upper Moreland-Hatboro Joint Sewer Authority for many years prior to his retirement in 2007. Ernest was true Philadelphia sports fanatic. A diehard Eagles, Phillies and Flyers fan, his dedication to Philadelphia never wavered. Ernest was an avid saltwater fisherman and enjoyed bowling. Above all, he loved his family and treasured every moment spent with them. He will be greatly missed.

Survived by his devoted wife Linda Deters, his loving sons; Brandon E. Deters and his wife Jennifer, Mark J. Deters and his wife Kelly, 5 cherished grandchildren; Colin, Alyssa, Caitlyn, Owen and Lia. He also leaves behind his sister Nancy Yoos and her husband Raymond, niece Laurie Chism and her husband Michael, great niece Lauren Chism and great nephew Brendan Chism.

A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026 from 11 am - 1:00 pm at Maguire Memorial Home, 124 High Street, Hackettstown, NJ 07840. Memorial service will begin at 1:00 pm in the funeral home followed by Military honors. Inurnment will be held privately at Northern NJ Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Sparta, NJ

Donations may be made in Ernest's name to the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516 or online at https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org