Erma G. Wilson

AN ODE OF LOVE FOR OUR BELOVED

When the world was an empty place, and needed a smiling, tender face, God formed you from the earth and then smiled on you when it was done. Through trials and hardship, suffering and pain, you would not question why. Through dark, cold storms and rain, on God you did rely.

Erma Wilson peacefully departed this life on Sunday, March 16, 2025 at Sentara Obici Hospital leaving a void her family cannot fill. Erma was born Oct. 1, 1946, to Robert and Essie Goings. A native of Isle of Wight County, Va., during her formative years of development she attended the county's Georgia Tyler High School. She was a devoted member of Main Street Baptist Church, faithfully duties as a Christian disciple. As a dedicated worker assistant at Main Street Baptist Church Learning Center, she helped to provide an environment conducive to learning academic and life skills through her service, before becoming a full-time homemaker. Erma's devotion, beautiful smile, sacrifice and love for her family and others will always be remembered. Her love for outdoors was evident, especially in her lawn and flowers. She was a devoted mother to Dwayne, Angela and Arlisha—her pride and joy. She always said, "their birth changed her life for the better," and they felt that in the love and support she provided.

Erma was preceded in death by her parents, Robert & Essie Goings; her daughter, Arlisha Wilson, and her siblings —Robert Jr., John, Frankie Goings and a sister Dorothy Goings, who never forgot the love she brought to their lives. Her surviving children cherishing her memories are Dwayne Wilson (Cheryl) and Angela Wilson-Speas (Rodney); also sharing in this profoundly expressed spirit of love are three sisters—Essie Lawrence, Earnestine Whitfield (Rev. Darnell), and Janice Williams; her sister-in-law Elaine Wilson; and her bonus grandchildren—Gabrielle, Jordan and Alex; along with a host of nieces, nephews and extended relatives and community of friends.

Erma will be sadly missed by her family, relatives, friends and neighbors. In the echoes of fond remembrances, we find peace in knowing that the memories each of us holds dear will continue to shape and inspire our network of loved ones, keeping her spirit alive in our hearts and actions. While her presence may be gone, her impact lives on in the kindness shown to others and the joy she found in the ordinary, special and unique moments of life.

Your joy, Erma, was enough to light the room; your laugh would bring a smile, Till one day you saw that Heavenly place, as you came to your journey's end. You told us just how beautiful it was and said you loved us again and again. Take your rest from this place, for it is time that you move on. So, you shall not suffer another day as you stand in the light of the Son. We all shall miss your presence here, but cannot say goodbye, For one day we shall meet again "In the Sweet By and By.

On Saturday, March 22, 2025, viewing will take place from 2-5pm at Shivers Funeral Chapel. At 12pm on Sunday, March 23, 2025, a Celebration of Life Service will be held at Main Street Baptist Church. Please keep the Wilson family in your thoughts and prayers.