Ervin "The Fruit Man' Lacy

Romans 3:23-24 teaches…for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. For Ervin Lacy, being a son, brother, father, grandfather, friend, uncle, patriarch, mentor, neighbor, counselor, confidante, and servant were all honorable callings. Moreover, he was a part of the generation that counted friendship as a virtue. So his golden accomplishment in life was to produce a tapestry of memories for which his family would forever cherish and relish. On October 18, 1948, the Lord blessed the lives of Sam and Elizabeth Archie Lacy with a bouncy bundle of joy they named Ervin. Ervin was born and raised in Helena, Arkansas where his parents taught him the value of hard work and independence. He was a graduate of Elijah Miller High School and grew up to be a smart and talkative young man. Ervin confessed at an early age a hope in Christ. During his early adult years he joined The Church of the Living God under the pastorate of Elder Baker and Sister Joetta Baker, where he was a faithful member. He also attended bible study at Moody Chapel AME Church on Wednesday mornings when his health would permit him to. Initiated during the administration of the then, Governor Bill Clinton, the ACCEPT Program was started to assist in the rehabilitation process for former prisoners. Ervin worked as a case worker and was passionate about his work in helping men get re-established into society. His last job was working at St. Vincent Medical Center. He was a true and trusted friend who always offered words of advice. He truly had an impact on the lives of those who crossed his path. Brother Lacy also known as "The Fruit and Vegetable Man" sold produce to many restaurants throughout the city of Little Rock. On any given day you would find him on Asher Avenue selling his produce. He never met a stranger and took every opportunity to give words of encouragement about God and the joys of life. He also had a great relationship with Carpenter's Produce where he would work with them at the Farmers Market for several years. On March 24, 1980, Ervin was joined in marriage to Annie Penny. To this union one child was born. He was blessed to see another generation of his family begin. He loved all of his children and grandchildren. His hobbies included talking, watching wrestling, basketball and college football; he loved to barbeque and just have a good time. Ervin was the life of the party. One of his greatest joys was spending memorable moments with relatives and friends, both young and old. His legacy of family togetherness, hospitality and community will live on in the hearts of his loved ones and friends. He possessed a friendly spirit and never met a stranger. He meant what he said, and said what he meant. His natural wit and humor could chase the chill from any room. He preached kindness, respect of self and others. Ervin was a simple man, who enjoyed the simple things that life offered. He was a modern day “Fred Sanford”, he had a great eye and knew for a fact that “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure”. He owned and operated a small used furniture store and could find a use for anything. “The Fruit Man” was loved by all, but God loved him best. He entered into eternal rest on Saturday, October 31, 2015 at 3:31 PM at UAMS Hospital in Little Rock, Arkansas. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Maxie Lacy. His precious memories will be cherished by his loving wife: Annie of Little Rock; five daughters, Aneesah McDaniel (Stanley) of Dallas, TX; Kamesha Penny of Atlanta, GA; Joya Lacy of Memphis, TN; Courtney Lacy and Jasmine Hunter of Little Rock, AR; three sons, Myron Henry, Ervin Hunter and Kerry Hunter of Little Rock, AR; and eleven grandchildren. He also leaves a special Auntie, Velma Lacy and a special (Adopted daughter) Yolanda "Yoyo" McDaniel; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and numerous friends. A celebration of his life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2015 at Moody Chapel AME Church in Little Rock. Rev. Hezekiah Stewart will officiate. Public visitation will be held on Friday, November 6, 2015 from 12 noon until 4 p.m. and the family will receive friends from 6-7 p.m. at Moody Chapel AME Church.To view and print the printed program CLICK HERE: