Helen Ruth Daugherty Ervin

On October 10, 2025, our matriarch Helen Ruth Daugherty Ervin passed from this earthly life at the age of 93.  She was raised in Tellico Plains, Tennessee. She married our father Vernon Lee Ervin in August, 1951.  Helen proved to be both a devoted wife and  mother for her entire life.  She followed dad wherever she could during over 20 years of military service. Helen and Vernon started their military life in Alameda, CA.  Dad spent 24 of the first 36 months of their marriage out at sea with the Navy as she adjusted to new challenges of being away and by herself. She epitomized the role of military wife and mother in places around the world such as Taiwan and Italy, as well as several stateside locations.   Wherever dad would be assigned, we would follow.  No matter where we moved, it was always mom who would set up the house, manage the bills, sew our clothes, cook every meal, and make us feel safe and loved.  Mom ALWAYS maintained a spotless home, and was known for her ability to seek out the real bargains at garage sales and thrift shops, she was a master baker and decorator.  She was supportive in every way you would hope a mother might be.  Her role as a military wife was concluded in 1972 when dad retired from the Air Force.  From that point, they brought us to Mesa, Arizona, where she remained for the rest of her life.  In retirement years while they were healthy, Mom and Dad would leave the scorching Arizona summers in their fifth-wheel trailer to discover new places of grandeur throughout the United States.  Her biggest heartache of life was enduring the passing of our brother Mike at the age of six.  Regardless, she always exuded the strength and faith of one who emphasized the right way to hold together a household. She is survived by her son Mark (wife Ira) and daughter Pam (husband Fred), along with 5 grandchildren Anthony, Nicholas (wife Aline), Andrew (wife Jesenya), Stephen and Christopher), 4 great grandchildren and one great great grandchild. 

A graveside service at the Mesa Cemetery, October 21, Tuesday at 11 AM as well a Facebook live broadcast from Ira.  Please contact Ira, Pam, or Mark for details about a time that will be scheduled soon. 

Mom, it is hard to say goodbye, but you excelled in meeting every challenge that came your way. You already are in the hands of God and we will join you soon.

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.