June 29, 2020
Anna Jeannette Ervin passed away on Friday, June 26, 2020 in Rockwood, Tennessee. She was born July 21, 1935 in Pennsylvania. She moved for a short time to Detroit MI, where she met and later married her beloved husband of 50 years, Frank Ervin. Together they returned to his hometown of Smithville and started a family. She quickly adapted to living in the country and through her life, she became a skilled cook, gardener, seamstress and cared for many children. From 1956, she spent most of her days living and loving her family in Smithville. She was a member of United Pentecostal Church, and she worked at many of the local factories.
Never one to sit idle even in retirement, she and Frank worked for the Corps of Engineers for 10 years caring for the Holmes Creek Campground, where they kept the campsites tidy and enjoyed fishing nearly every day of the summer. They were known for competing to see who caught the most bluegill in one day. She was an excellent cook, baker of pumpkin rolls, avid gardener, skilled quilter, and quick with a puzzle. She lovingly cared for her grandchildren and several enjoyed living with her for periods of time. She loved traveling to visit friends and family and was always up for an adventure. She was generous, competitive, focused and fiercely loyal to her family.
When her husband passed in 2006, Anna moved to East Tennessee for 5 years before returning to the Webb House in Smithville, where she enjoyed 5 years making friends, folding gift boxes and growing zinnias.
She is survived by her 4 children, Thomas (Marie) Ervin of Smithville, Robert (Patty) Ervin of Spring City, TN, Dorothy (Steve) Knipfer of Lenoir City, TN, David Randall (Babbie) Ervin of Columbia, TN, 10 grandchildren, Brandon Ervin, Amber Roper, Adam Ervin, Jason Evans, Chris Ingram, Joe Ingram, Matt Ervin, Jennifer Ervin, Julia Cole, James Ervin, many great grandchildren and a great great grandchild.
A private graveside service will be held at DeKalb Memorial Gardens. Michael Hale will officiate. Donations in memory of Anna may be made to Haven of Hope. DeKalb Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.