In the early morning of November 13, 2011, Earnest "June Bug" Hardridge, Jr., left this earth and ascended into Heaven to be with the Lord.

He was the first son born May 1, 1951 in Muskogee, Oklahoma to Earnest and Mildred [Brown] Hardridge.

Earnest attended Douglass Elementary School, and graduated from the Historic Manual Training High School with the Class of 1969. Furthering his education, he attended and graduated from Oklahoma City University, earning his Bachelor's Degree in 1973, afterwards, continuing in the Master's program of Performing Arts, culminating with graduation in 1975.

He traveled extensively, performing. He also taught performing arts to local children in the Oklahoma City and Muskogee areas.

Earnest made friends very easily wherever he went. He will be remembered throughout Muskogee. As a youngster, Earnest grew up and was a member of the Morning Star Baptist Church in Muskogee. He was a Christian and to those who knew him, became a friend. If he knew your birthdate, you were sure to receive a birthday card or a phone call; he would never forget. He will truly be missed by his friends and his family.

He leaves in God's care; his mother, Mildred Brown Hardridge; his sisters, Berthena [Gene] Palmer, Erma Jean Reed, and Denise Ledbetter; his brothers, Raymond, Jimmy Ray, Dennis, Glenn Henry [Jane], and Timothy Joe Hardridge; his uncles, George [Donna] Brown, Muskogee, Nathaniel Brown and Curtis Kirk, Los Angeles, California; a host of nieces, nephews and cousins; a special cousin, Cleo DeBose; special friends, Doris Clemons, Larita Portis and Harold Aldridge.

The Service of Remembrance for Mr. Hardridge will be on Friday, November 18, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. in the Chapel of Remembrance. Reverend Gregory Fields will officiate.