Bill Byrge, Beloved 'Ernest' Actor, Dies at 92

The actor, best known for playing Bobby in the 'Ernest' franchise, passed away in Nashville, with his family remembering him as a kind and humorous soul.

Bill Byrge, known for his role as Bobby in the 'Ernest' movies and TV series, died on January 9, 2025, at the age of 92 in Nashville, Tennessee.
His cousin, Sharon Chapman, announced his passing on Facebook, describing him as a 'beautiful soul' who brought laughter effortlessly to those around him.
Byrge appeared in seven 'Ernest' films and the TV series 'Hey Vern, It's Ernest!' alongside Jim Varney, starting with 'Dr. Otto and the Riddle of the Gloom Beam' in 1985.
Originally a librarian at the Metro Nashville Public Library, Byrge transitioned to acting full-time in the 1990s but returned to library work after Varney's death in 2000.
Byrge was remembered as deeply religious, respectful, and a unique personality who made a lasting impression both on-screen and off.

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