Erma Jean Wells

In Loving Memory of Erma Jean Wells.  March 17, 1936 – Oct. 20, 2026.

Erma Jean Wells, 90, passed away peacefully on Oct. 20, 2026, leaving behind a beautiful legacy of love, faith, and devotion to her family.

Erma was born on March 17, 1936, in Deford, to Lydia May Cooper and Homer Wilhelmsen. In her youth, she faced several challenges, but with resilience, she used those experiences to shape the rest of her life.

Erma became a state-certified hairdresser, though marriage and raising her children took priority over pursuing a career in a salon. She met the love of her life, Richard, while roller skating, and the two were married in 1956.

Throughout her life, Erma was an active member of several churches, including Faith Baptist Church in Royal Oak, and later First Baptist Church of Bradenton, Florida. Her faith was central to her life and remained a source of strength and comfort throughout the years.

Above all else, Erma was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was the proud mother of three children: Karen, David (Andrea), and Larry (Claudine). She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard, and her daughter, Karen.

One of the greatest examples of Erma’s extraordinary love was her devotion to her special needs daughter, Karen. Erma lovingly cared for her daughter for 67 years, never once viewing it as a burden. Instead, she described the experience as “such a joy.” Those words capture the depth of her love and the selflessness with which she cared for her family.

Erma was blessed with seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immeasurable joy. Her family was her greatest treasure, and she cherished every opportunity to spend time with them. Whether in Michigan or Florida, she enjoyed life’s simple pleasures, from tending to her beloved garden and enjoying the beauty of flowers and birds, to singing in the choir, participating in water aerobics, and playing cards. She had a contagious laugh, a wonderful sense of humor, and a way of making people feel welcome. Those who knew her can almost hear her saying, “Mercy sakes!”

Those who knew Erma will remember her generous heart and willingness to help anyone in need. She gave freely without expecting anything in return and found happiness in caring for others. Though her family will deeply miss her presence and the warmth she brought into their lives, they can find comfort in knowing that her faith has now become sight and that she is at peace in the presence of her Savior. Erma leaves behind a legacy of enduring faith, unconditional love, and devotion to family that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.