Ervin (Baxter) Arnold

Ervin (Baxter) Arnold was born on August 24, 1951, in Phenix City, Alabama, to loving parents, Oscar and Beulah Arnold.  He was the fourth of nine children.  He departed this life on January 20,2022.  Ervin was always a stylish and impeccable dresser. His gifted sense of style, and fashions eventually led to a degree in Clothing and Related Arts & Business from Tuskegee University.  He furthered his Education at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. Ervin later finished a five-year apprenticeship program under presidential tailors, earning his certification as a Master Tailor. He was one of the first African American entrepreneurs to open a business on Atlanta’s famed Peachtree Street in the 80’s.  Ervin was blessed to use his gift to serve the tailoring needs of people from all walks of life. His many talents also included being a certified masseur. His resourcefulness and entrepreneurial spirit led to the opening of his first business, Mr. Pants A Lot, a men’s clothing store, while still a student at Tuskegee.  Throughout his career, he has owned tailor/clothing stores in Alabama, Georgia, and Michigan. At present, he was the owner/proprietor of Arnolds Men’s & Women’s Wear and Tailor Shop, on Main Street, in downtown Adrian where he resided.  Community service was important to Ervin, and as a member of Alpha Phi Omega Fraternity, a community service organization he was able to help others.  As an ordained minister, Ervin used this precious gift to counsel many, always using practical biblical principles! He never missed the opportunity to share his testimony of God’s uplifting role during his mountain and valley experiences. At a very young age, he confessed Christ and joined Pine Hill Church in Phenix City. He currently is a faithful member of Cornerstone Church in Maumee, Ohio.  Ervin leaves to cherish his memory: his affectionate and devoted wife, Regina; his loving mother, Beulah; his son, Ervin Jr., daughter,  Brandi ( O.J.) Williams; 5 children-in-love: David Lobbins, Jon (Lavasha) Lobbins, Jason (Trina) Lobbins,  Monica (Rev. Billy) Pierce, Maryum (Tracey) Gibson; godchild/niece, Semira Sawyer;  mother-in-law, Beatrice Sawyer; 8 siblings: Dr. Ann Wyatt, James Arnold, Atlena (Floyd) Bledsaw, Jimmy Arnold, Oscar Jr. (Dorothy) Arnold, Angela Robinson, Marcus Arnold, & Norman (Gema) Arnold; sister-in-law, Tonia Sawyer; brother-in-law, Kenny (Tameka) Sawyer; nineteen grandchildren; one great-grand child; and a host of loving nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.  Viewing & Visitation will be on Friday January 28, 2022, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at J. Gilbert Purse Funeral Home, 2959 N Adrian Hwy, Adrian, MI.  Funeral Services will be held 11:00 AM Saturday January 29, 2022, at Cornerstone Church, 1520 Reynolds Rd, Maumee, OH 43537 (WATCH LIVE LINK)  Ervin will also lie in state on Saturday at Cornerstone Church from 10:00 AM until the time of service.  Masks are required.  Burial will be in Toledo Memorial Park, Sylvania, OH.  www.PurseFuneralHome.com

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