The Man, the Myth, the Legend: Ervin Ray Randolph

Ervin Ray Randolph was born on May 14, 1967, in Ruidoso, New Mexico, to Maria “Faye” Romero and Johnny Elmon Randolph.

Ervin proudly served in the United States Air Force, earning an honorable discharge as a Sergeant in 1995 after completing his additional service in the Reserves. Following his military service, he dedicated more than 20 years to the United States Postal Service, becoming a familiar and well-known member of the community he called home.

Ervin was a proud father of two sons and one daughter, but becoming a grandfather brought him an entirely new level of joy. His family was his pride, and he found special happiness in loving, spoiling, and creating memories with those he held closest to his heart.

Known for his quick wit, stubborn nature, and unapologetically old-school soul, Ervin was a man who never hesitated to speak his mind. He said what he meant, meant what he said, and stood firmly in his convictions, regardless of the outcome. You always knew where you stood with Ervin, and that was part of what made him so unforgettable.

A true outdoorsman, Ervin had a deep appreciation for hunting, hiking, fishing, and the beauty of the great outdoors. He was an excellent hunter with a particular love for antique guns and classic cars. His interests extended far beyond the outdoors, however. Ervin possessed a remarkable artistic talent and could draw or sketch just about anything. Over the years, he mastered woodworking and wood burning before turning his craftsmanship toward carving antlers, creating beautifully intricate designs that reflected his patience, creativity, and eye for detail. His hands could transform ordinary materials into something extraordinary, leaving behind pieces of his talent that will be treasured for years to come.

Above all, Ervin had a giving heart. He loved his family deeply, and he had a special way of making the people he loved feel remembered and cared for. Whether it was showing up with bags full of goodies or carefully selecting gifts with sentimental meaning, Ervin put thought into the little things that meant the most. His gifts were never simply gifts; they were expressions of love, reminders that he was thinking of you, and reflections of how well he knew the people closest to him. He took care of those around him and gave generously, often in ways that spoke louder than words ever could.

Ervin was a man of many talents, strong opinions, a generous spirit, and a personality that could never be mistaken for anyone else's. He was loved by so many throughout his hometown and across the state, leaving an impression on the lives he touched and memories that will continue to be shared for generations.

He is survived by sons, Patrick Randolph, and Daniel Randolph; daughter, Cameron Sandoval; grandchildren, Brayden Segura, Brynlee Barela, Mariah Barela, Liam Randolph, and Karolina Randolph; mother, Faye Romero Randolph; brothers, Albert Randolph, and Michael Randolph; sisters, Lilian Miranda, and Bertha Randolph; many beloved nieces and nephews; and friends, Earl Baca, Ryder Lemons, and Frank Jensen.

Ervin was preceded in death by his father, Johnny Elmon Randolph; a sister, Elma Eilene Garcia; grandfathers, Jose Candelario Randolph, and Sigesfriedo Gonzales Romero; grandmothers, Virginia Gill Sanchez, and Lucia Montoya Ybarra; and best friend, Ray Sanchez.

There will be a private military service held at Fort Stanton State Veteran’s Cemetery.

Ervin leaves behind a legacy of service, craftsmanship, generosity, and a love for family that will never be forgotten. Though he may be gone from our sight, the mark he left on this world and the people he loved will remain forever.