Ernest Joseph Duarte, retired sergeant

Ernest Joseph Duarte, a retired correctional sergeant, passed away Jan. 20, 2026. Services will be held Feb. 20.

He worked for the department for 25 years, with 20 of those years at California Institution for Men.

Duarte began his career with the department at Ironwood State Prison in February 1994 as a correctional officer. He later transferred to headquarters in June 1998 and was promoted to correctional sergeant at California Institution for Men in March 2005.

He remained at the institution until retiring in 2019.

“Sgt. Duarte proudly dedicated 25 years of service to the department. He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time,” according to the institution.

Viewing will be held from 10 a.m. to noon, Feb. 20, at Miller Jones Mortuary and Crematory, 23618 Sunnymead Blvd., Moreno Valley. Burial will follow at 2 p.m. at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside. A reception will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. at 33839 McKenny Place in Yucaipa.

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