Mourning Paul Ervin, aka Moses the Street Preacher
A memorial to a many who touched many lives
In September 2019, we published a story about Paul Ervin, aka Moses the Street Preacher, after he recovered from a brutal attack in his home. The feedback we heard from readers of the story confirmed that Ervin had touched countless lives with his words and actions.
Ervin passed away last month. Below is an obituary written by a friend of Ervin’s who wished to remain anonymous. If you knew Ervin and wish to pay your respects, his friends will host a memorial service for him on Sunday, March 9 at 2 p.m. at the Brooklyn Collective at 229 S Brevard St.
Paul Antonio Ervin, known to many as Moses, Pablo, or Seven, passed away on Feb. 13, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, faith and unwavering kindness.
Born on March 2, 1969, as Paul Antonio Ervin, Moses’ journey was one of transformation. From his early years in Baltimore to his time in Charlotte, he faced hardships that shaped his profound understanding of life. Though he experienced pain and loss, he chose to respond with love, grace and an open heart.
Homelessness was once part of his path but he never let it define him. Instead, he found peace in nature, strength in solitude, and a mission in spreading joy. Standing on Milton and Sharon Amity Roads, he became a beacon of light on “his block” — smiling and waving at passersby, reminding them they were seen, valued, and loved.
He often compared waving to fishing: “Whenever I throw out a wave, I’m fishing. And when somebody bites, they’ll wave back or they’ll point back or they’ll pop a peace [sign].”
Moses’ kindness touched countless lives. Whether through a simple wave, a heartfelt conversation, or his “90-second sermons” filled with faith and hope, he had a way of making everyone feel special. His resonating laugh — deep, full, and contagious — had a way of turning strangers into friends and lifting spirits in an instant.
Moses loved people, Bob Marley’s music and the simple pleasures of life — fishing, a good fish fry and tending to his garden of tomatoes and okra.
Though he has left this world, his spirit lives on in every smile exchanged between strangers, in the small acts of kindness we extend to one another and in the unwavering belief that light can be found even in the darkest of times.
Rest in peace, Moses. Your love and wisdom will never be forgotten.
We are hopeful to raise funds for a bronze statue of Moses on his block, continuing to wave and radiate his messages of encouragement, love, and peace throughout Charlotte, our country, and our world. Please stay tuned.
Ervin’s friends have launched a GoFundMe to help pay for Sunday’s memorial service and Ervin’s burial.
