Erma Jean Howard Jones

Obituary For Erma Jean Howard Jones

On July 4, 1950 God entrusted one of his creations to blossom in the life of Clarence H. Howard Sr. and Bernice R. Jackson Howard. Erma was born in Midville, Burke County, Georgia, fourth child of six children, Earnestine, Barbara, Clarence, Erma, Eddie (Wilhelmina) Pam.

Erma's educational journey began in the Jefferson County Public School System, followed by her graduation from the Detroit Michigan Public School System. She furthered her studies at Wayne County Community College in Detroit, Michigan, OIC Business Institution in Brooklyn, New York, the University of the District of Columbia in Washington, D.C., and Paine College in Augusta, Georgia.

With 18 years of experience in the medical field, Erma transitioned into retail, where she has held positions at notable companies such as R.H. Macy, Big Lots, Dollar General, and Walmart.

Erma's commitment to community service is evident through her involvement with various organizations, including the City of Wadley Kids Cafe, Ships for Youth, Family Connection, the Wadley Feed-A-Kid Program, and the Wadley Christmas Parade Committee. Additionally, she has served as a substitute teacher for the Jefferson County Public School System and has been a member of the Jefferson County Library Board of Trustees. Erma also contributed her time at Hudson Mortuary as an Usher and Driver, showcasing her dedication to both education and community enrichment.

Erma became a member of San Clair Missionary Baptist Church at the young age of 8, under the guidance of Reverend T.M. Burton in August 1938 in Wadley, Georgia. Throughout her life, she has always maintained a strong connection to her church community.

Her journey included vibrant participation at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Detroit, Michigan, and Brown Memorial Baptist Church in Brooklyn, New York, where she served on the usher board under the leadership of Dr. Samuel Austin. Additionally, she contributed as Den Mother for Boy Scouts of America Troop #199 (Bear and Welbo) and was an active member of the First Rock Baptist Church in Washington, D.C., under Reverend Joseph King.

After relocating back to Georgia, Erma joyfully rejoined San Clair Missionary Baptist Church. There, she held several leadership roles, including serving on the Senior Usher Board, advising the Junior Usher Board, chairing the Missionaries, and chairing both the Pastor’s Aide and the Willing Worker Department.

In August 2002, she became a member of Brinson Hill Baptist Church, under the leadership of Reverend David Kemp. Erma continued her service by participating in the Senior Usher Ministry, Missionary Ministry, and kitchen ministry, while also fulfilling roles as secretary and teacher, as well as advising the Twelve Tribes of Israel.

Erma met and married Samuel Taylor Jones, creating a harmonious blend of two families and nurturing seven wonderful children together. She had a deep love for people, viewing everyone as a friend and embracing diversity without regard for color. Erma cherished capturing moments with her camera during family gatherings and enjoyed traveling and tending to her beautiful flowers.

Her passion for fellowship was evident as she often invited friends and family to celebrate holidays together. Erma found joy in reading, cooking, and actively participating in her community and church. Family was her top priority, and she loved her family unconditionally.

In her church, Erma inspired others with uplifting phrases such as, “One day at a time,” “Be encouraged,” “Just hang in there a little longer,” “I really don't have time for your drama or excuses today,” and “If I can help somebody as I pass this way, my living will not be in vain.”

Erma often reflected on her life with gratitude, stating, “I’ve had a good life, no regrets, a wonderful husband, beautiful children, a family filled with love, and many blessings from the Lord.”

Erma is preceded in death by her parents, and her siblings, Ernestine, Barbara and Eddie.

Erma is lovingly remembered by her husband, Samuel T. Jones, and her cherished daughters: Tyrea H. (Demetrius) Hayward of Wadley, Georgia; Dr. Hollie (Ira) Kelly of Menifee, California; Bridgette Ferguson of Martinez, Georgia; and Tanya (Earnest) Briley of Jacksonville, Florida. She is also survived by her devoted sons, Fernard Strowbridge of Washington, District of Columbia; Vincent Jones of Atlanta, Georgia; and Dr. Michael Jones of Atlanta, Georgia. Two loving siblings: Clarence (Gladys) Howard, Jr., Clinton Township, Michigan and Wilhelmina Howard, Detroit Michigan; aunts and uncles: Helen Tom’s, Silver Springs, Maryland, Betty Jean Royal, Alexandria, VA.

In addition to her immediate family, Erma held a special place in the hearts of her godchildren: Lakida Murphy, Te’Asia Scott, Autumn Kemp, Terrell Brinson, and Vincent Hicks Jr. She was a proud grandmother to 12 grandchildren and a loving great-grandmother to 13 great-grandchildren.

Homegoing Celebration will be held Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 12 Noon at Brinson Hill Baptist Church, 493 South Main Street, Wadley, Georgia Interment will be held in the church Cemetery.

Public viewing will be held Friday, January 10, 2025 from 3:00 to 6:00 P.M.

Davis Funeral Home of 725 Beech Street Louisville, Georgia is in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Erma Jean Howard Jones.