Erma has been part of my life as long as I can remember, because she married Uncle Ken (my dad’s brother) a few weeks before I was born. Ken died suddenly about 31 years ago.
If you are interested, you can see her obituary here:
Her seven children blessed and honored her at a Life Celebration Service at Blue Ball Church of the Brethren on Thursday afternoon, May 5.
I took these pictures without flash and between people’s heads – so ignore some of the blurred spots.
Her oldest daughter, Joyce, went first – and they followed by age.
Marian
Joel
Marilyn
David
Jim
This picture gives you an idea of my position in the church and why there were sometimes heads in my way. 🙂
The youngest – Jay Milton
Then a few grandchildren shared memories. By now there were more heads in the way because the children went back to their seats. 🙂 This is Kenda – Ron and Marian’s daughter.
One of David and Debbie’s daughters (I don’t know her name).
David – Ron and Marian’s youngest son
Daniel – Ron and Marian’s oldest son
Kevin – one of Sam and Joyce’s sons. At least I think it was Kevin. 🙂 We haven’t seen them for awhile – and there is Ken, Kevin, Keith, and Kerry.
This trio took me back to my teenage years when they sang together at the church their father pastored in Long Run, Pennsylvania.
Rev. and Mrs. Fred Beam (good friends of Ken and Erma) also shared a few memories – especially how Ken challenged them to go the mission field and about Erma’s hospitality. The Beams spent many years in Africa.
While waiting for my cousins to assemble for a photo I took a picture of one of the pretty floral bouquets.
My cousins – Ken and Erma’s seven children – David, Jay Milton, Jim, Joel, Marilyn, Marian, and Joyce.
With their spouses: David & Debbie, Jay, Marilyn, Ron & Marian, Jim & Sue, Sam & Joyce, Joel & Jane.
Joyce is talking to my step-mother Velma and her sister Millie.
It was a day that brought back a lot of memories. I think we were the last people to leave the church. 🙂
Great memories and lovely people.
I loved the memories that day brought back.