- Mrs. Erma Jean Atherton, age 81, of Flora, IL, died at 11:23 a.m., Wednesday, September 11, 2013, at Clay County Hospital in Flora.
Erma was born October 18, 1931, in Flora, Illinois, to Delbert & Ethyl (Greenwood) Young. She married Elliott Gene Atherton on March 11, 1968, in Flora, IL. He preceded her in death on October 18, 1992.
Growing up Erma attended the Flora Schools until her completion; at which time, she chose to be trained as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Once she received her C.N.A. accreditation, she began working at Raber's Nursing Home in Flora. She continued to work there until they closed and then went to work at the Flora Manor, where she dedicated herself to the residents and her job, for 28 years, which was when she officially retired.
Retirement was not for Erma. She went on to work at various other part time jobs until she was no longer able.
Erma was a member of the Wesleyan Methodist Church in Flora, which is known today as, Emory Street Church. In her later years she attended any time she was able.
Mrs. Atherton was first and foremost a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She truly loved spending time with her family and loved each and every one of them in a special way. Erma also had a great love for red birds. Their beauty and presence were so special to her. Over the years she has accumulated a large collection of red birds. They brought her great inner joy.
She also loved music and singing, always doing and enjoying both, but especially liked dancing. The "Charleston", the "Jitterbug", the "Jerk" and the "Rubber Leg", are just an example of her vast dancing skills.
Erma is survived by five children: Karen McCormick, Paula Burrow, Allen McCormick, David McCormick, and Elliott "Tooter" Atherton Jr.; eleven grandchildren; six great grandchildren; a brother: Harold "Pete" Young and a sister; Veda Marie Kenchaloe.
Mrs. Atherton was preceded in death by her Parents, her husband Elliot, a grandchild: Adam McCormick, a great grandchild: Hunter Burrow, and sisters and brothers: Herbie Young, Don Young, Thelma Garrison, Alma Guinn, Verne Young and Virginia Young.
Services for Erma Atherton were held at Byrd & Kohn Funeral Home in Flora.
Burial immediately followed at Elmwood Cemetery in Flora.
Expressions of sympathy to Samaritan's Purse (Operation Christmas Child) or the Special Olympics.
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1931 - 2013 (81 years)
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English
