With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Jeffrey Ervin—beloved son, devoted brother, cherished uncle, and treasured friend—on May 17, 2025, at 10:44 a.m. at Legacy Good Samaritan Hospital in Portland, Oregon. Though his time with us ended far too soon, the love he gave and the joy he brought will forever echo in the hearts of all who knew him.
Born on December 2, 1972, in Stanford, California, Jeffrey's life was one of adventure, kindness, and quiet brilliance. He spent his formative years across several states—Arizona, Idaho, and ultimately Oregon, where he laid down roots and built a life rich with meaning. A proud graduate of Cleveland High School, Jeff went on to earn a degree in Business Management from Portland State University, a testament to his perseverance and intellect. He later brought that same drive and dedication to his role at 3 J’s Distribution Company, where he skillfully managed operations for over a decade.
But beyond his professional accomplishments, Jeff’s true legacy lives in the way he loved—with his whole heart and an open spirit. Jeff had an innate gift for caring for others. He fiercely loved his people—his family, his friends, his circle—and made it his mission to take care of them in every way he could. Whether through a warm meal, a thoughtful gesture, or simply showing up when someone needed him most, Jeff made sure those he loved felt safe, supported, and seen.
His culinary talents were legendary among friends and family; no gathering was complete without one of his lovingly prepared dishes, served with a generous helping of laughter and storytelling. Cooking was not just a skill for Jeff—it was an act of love, a way he nurtured those around him.
His devotion to his canine companions was unwavering. He now joins Cleo, Caesar, and Isis across the rainbow bridge, leaving behind Nero, his faithful and loving dog, with whom he had dreamed of sharing new adventures, including a scuba diving trip that remained on his bucket list—a symbol of his unquenchable curiosity and zest for life.
A seeker of beauty in the overlooked, Jeff was a connoisseur of treasures—frequenting thrift stores, garage and estate sales, and scouring the internet for collectibles and curiosities that spoke to his eclectic and vibrant spirit. Each item he found carried a story, just as each person who knew him carries a memory of his warmth, humor, and generous soul.
Jeffrey is survived by his devoted mother, Carolyn Hyland, and his beloved sisters, Nina Ervin-Peterson and Andrea Ervin. He also leaves behind many adoring nieces and nephews whose lives were brightened by his presence, his jokes, and his unwavering support.
Jeffrey’s passing leaves an immeasurable void, but also a powerful legacy—a reminder to live fully, love deeply, and find joy in the little things. He will be deeply missed, eternally remembered, and forever loved.
“Don’t cry because it’s over; smile because it happened.”