Ernest Lee Upton, age 64 of Shelbyville, passed away on Friday, April 26, 2019. He was born in McMinnville on March 10, 1955 to the late Carson Walker and Betty Sue (Kell) Upton. Ernest had been a professional Tennessee Walking Horse Trainer since high school graduation, but even as a youngster he enjoyed working with horses. Ernest was known for his expertise in starting colts, many of which later earned World Championship Honors.

It was Ernest’s true joy to instill the love of the Tennessee Walking Horse on the youth, and was known to have taught many to ride or have put them on their first horse. Ernest will be remembered for being a true horseman and for the many great horses he was associated with.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Ronald Carson Upton. Ernest is survived by his son, Ernest Lee (Rebecca) Upton Jr; step-son, Cliff Carlock; grandchildren, Lane Upton, Carson Upton, Josh Carlock, and Kirby Carlock; nieces, Beth (Clint) Joyner and Mystie (Chris) Fehlman; nephews, Brent Upton and Mark DeMasso; beloved partner, Patti Marek.

A visitation with family and friends will be held on Monday, April 29, 2019 from 5:00-7:00 pm in the Blue Ribbon Circle at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, 110 North Evans Street, Shelbyville, Tennessee.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to Ernest Upton Youth Riding Scholarship Riding Camp, c/o Dempsey Vantrease and Follis, 30 South Church Street, Suite 300, Murfreesboro, TN 37130.