Linn County
Pioneer Assocation

Decades of Service Lead Ervins to Grand Marshal Honor

After forty decades of service to their neighbors, Joe and LeAnne Ervin will lead one of
Brownsville’s most beloved traditions as Grand Marshals of the 2026 Pioneer Picnic.
The honor recognizes a legacy built not on recognition, but on steady, everyday care for the
community.

Joe Ervin began working at Brownsville Pharmacy on May 1, 1985. Over the years, he became
a trusted figure to generations of local families. For many customers, he was more than a
pharmacist. He was someone who listened, answered questions, offered reassurance and
helped when help was needed most.

Residents remember moments that reflected his character, including times when he helped
customers afford needed medication or responded quickly during emergencies to make sure
families had prescriptions in hand.

Joe was the founder and chair of the Pioneer Picnic Dam Run 5K/10K. He chaired the event for
over 10 years. Proceeds from the annual event benefit the Central Linn Track Teams.
LeAnne Ervin’s contributions were equally important. A graduate of Oregon State University,
along with Joe, she helped manage the pharmacy’s finances and shaped the gift shop into a
favorite stop for local shoppers. Her careful selection of cards, children’s clothing, handmade
items and gifts helped make the pharmacy a place of connection as well as care.

Together, the Ervins built a business rooted in service. Through changing times, from
handwritten prescriptions to digital systems, their approach remained the same: people came
first.

Joe and LeAnne have been an integral part of the community, have supported countless events
and organizations, always greeting us with smiling faces and compassion, and providing a very
needed service in a small town where running a business, especially a pharmacy, was not
always easy. Joe’s pharmaceutical expertise coupled with Leanne’s business knowledge and
eye for displays and buying made their store a must-stop space when visiting downtown. They
have been long-time Chamber members, and supported their activities for many years.

Now retired after 40 years, Joe and LeAnne are beginning a new chapter that may include travel
and more time with family. But their impact remains deeply woven into Brownsville. remains
deeply woven into Brownsville.

Pioneer Picnic celebrates the town’s history, spirit and sense of community. As Grand
Marshals, the Ervins will lead the parade through downtown, greeted by friends, neighbors and
generations of customers whose lives they touched.

In a town that values connection and kindness, Joe and LeAnne Ervin represent the best of
both.

The whole community wishes to say thank you for your service to our town. We’ll miss
seeing you when we go to the pharmacy and store, but we are thrilled that you are able
to retire and focus on other things that will bring you joy.