Thomas Jefferson Ervin, 91, of Statesville, passed away on May 17, 2017.

Thomas was born on March 8, 1926 to the late Everette V. Ervin and Eula J. Whitesides Ervin in Troutman, NC. He graduated from Troutman High School in 1943 and entered the U.S. Army. He proudly served in WWII with field artillery in Germany and France.

Thomas was employed at Sherrill Machinery Co. of Troutman for 43 years and retired from the Troutman Volunteer Fire Dept and Rescue. As a life long member of Troutman United Methodist Church, he participated in mission work in other countries and was a member of the Methodist Men. Thomas also volunteered with the Boy Scout Troop, where he was a master for 17 years, was a charter member of the American Legion Post 104, and a member of the Lions Club. He was a great inventor and handyman, and his spare time enjoyed wood working.

Thomas is survived by his wife, Martha Jean Herman, whom he married in 1950; daughter, Marcia Ervin Lindler and husband, Charles; son, T. Jeffery Ervin and wife, Gail Steward Ervin; daughter, Wanda Ervin Rakocy and husband, F. Joseph Rakocy; siblings, Carleen Willard, Elmore (Jack) Ervin, Miriam Hudspeth, Danny Ervin, Melvin Ervin, Sonya Blake, Bud Ervin and Doris E. Sweat. He is also survived by 6 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and 2 step great-grandchildren.

There will be a memorial service held at 3pm on Friday, June 2^nd, 2017 at First United Methodist Church, 204 Mills Ave. Troutman, NC 28166. The family will receive friends after the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First United Methodist Church in memory of Thomas.

Carolina Cremation is honored to serve the Ervin family. Online condolences may be made at www.carolinacremation.com.