Horace Ervin Obituary (1965 - 2024)

Horace K. Ervin, better known as Erv or Kemel, began his earthly journey on December 1, 1965. He was born to Doris C. Bevans Ervin and Horace Nelson in Camden, NJ. The youngest of his siblings, Horace went on to attend Camden Public Schools, where he flourished as both an athlete and scholar. He attended U.A.M.E Church in Camden. Upon graduation from Camden High School, Horace entered the United States Air Force and was soon after stationed to his first assignment at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma City, OK. It was there that he met and married Elechia Wilson. Through their union, he earned his most honorable title as a “girl dad” to Jhlechia and Jhshell Ervin. During his service, he made his way around the world with assignments to the following bases over his military career: Kadena AB, Japan; Elemendorf AFB, AK; Andersen AFB, Guam; Dover AFB, DE; and Wright-Patterson AFB, OH. Erv worked his way diligently up in the Air Force to a Master Sergeant, rising in rank and earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Healthcare Administration from Wayland Baptist University and his Master’s Degree in Healthcare Management from Columbia Southeastern University. Beyond his accomplishments in his career, in his personal life Erv was known by friends for his infectious laugh, kind spirit and unwavering commitment to his personal health. He was at his happiest when hitting the trails on feet or by bike, swimming and lifting weights. A true Sagittarius, he was an explorer who valued traveling to new places, but never forgot where he came from. He was active and connected within his Camden ‘84 Class, from which sprung lifetime friendships that he adored. Erv was admired by many, known as someone that friends could come to for wise advice, corny jokes, but most of all a genuine, down to earth demeanor. Erv’s legacy continues on through his daughters and his grandson, Jayden Qureshi. His memory also lives on through his siblings Howard Bevans, Gary Ervin and Denise Ervin as well as his nieces Carla Cooper Ingram, Sakia Bevans, Casandra Dancy and nephews Jamar Ervin and Elijah Ervin. As we say goodbye to Erv in this earthly realm, we know that his spirit will continue to soar free. MSgt Horace K. Ervin, we salute you with the deepest respect and say farewell until we meet again. Until then, fly eagle. Fly!