James Richard Ervin

Richard Ervin, beloved Husband, Dad, Papa, Brother, Uncle, and Friend left his family on earth and joined his Father in Heaven on February 25, 2017 surrounded by his most cherished \four girls\. A Celebration of Richard's life will be held on Saturday, March 4, 2017 at 11:00 am at The Branch at Nalley-Pickle & Welch.Richard was born on March 9, 1946 to Dorothy and Charles Ervin in Midland, TX. He graduated from Midland High School in 1964 and then went on to earn his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from The University of Texas in Austin. Richard was able to travel the United States working in commercial construction in his mid-twenties and went on to become a Landman. He continued to travel until he found himself back in Midland putting his college education to use by joining his father in the family business, The Ervin Insurance Agency. In 1990, after his father’s retirement, Richard became the owner of the Agency. On February 14, 1990, Richard married the woman he had been waiting for, his soulmate and angel on Earth, Debbie. Together they continued growing the family business until his retirement in 2006.Richard spent the rest of his life centered around those he loved. Richard, aka \Fat Rabbit\ and his Indian Princess \Bouncing Bunny\ made wonderful father/daughter memories while in the Sioux Tribe. Richard was also a proud member of the Northside Lions Club for many years and loved participating in its annual fundraisers, especially the Bunny Breakfast. His dedication to the Lions was honored when he was presented with the distinguished, Melvin Jones Fellow award. Richard was also a long time member of the Independent Insurance Agents of Texas and the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of the Permian Basin. Richard loved listening to all kinds of music, but was especially passionate about the Blues. He was also a member of Midland's Jazz and Blues Societies. Though he had many passions, Richard found his greatest joy in his grandchildren. They called him Pop, Papa, Paw Paw, Poppy, or Big Mess…whichever fit him best at the moment. Richard had a soft spot for all animals especially his puppies Hank & Lola and insisted they be spoiled on a regular basis. He will be greatly missed by everyone who shared in his life's journey.Richard is survived by his wife, Debbie; daughter, Jessica Ervin-Horner; stepson, Wayne Stephens; grandchildren, Ethan, Edward & Eli Stephens and Kealey, Kayle, & Jahnna Horner and their father, John Horner; siblings Chuck Ervin & Sally Hurta; brother-in-law, Ed & wife Melody Willis; nephews, Chad Hurta, Kevin & Stephen Willis and niece, Kim Willis-Eales.He is preceded in death by parents Dorothy and Charles, brother Tom, aunt Kathy & uncle Tex Ervin and his childhood nanny Lizzie.In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be donated to Alzheimer's Association, Hospice Midland or Northside Lions Club – Bunny Breakfast.,