Erma Dean Mathes

Erma Dean Mathes of Ironton, Missouri passed away October 13, 2019 in Farmington, Missouri at the age of 85 years. She was born July 21, 1934 in Howes Mill, Missouri the daughter of the late Willard Adolphe and Nettie Irene (White) Short. She was also preceded in death by her stepmother, Mable Lucille Short who became her mother when Erma was eleven. On July 2, 1953 she was united in marriage to Kennith Leroy Mathes who survives. To this union five children were born; Lee Ann Mathes who was stillborn, Pamela Bunta of Farmington, Missouri, Sharon Gibson of Bismarck, Missouri, Brenda Kuhlman and husband, David of Ballwin, Missouri and Kent Mathes and wife Sally of Iron Mountain, Missouri. Also surviving are her brother; Delmond Short of Desloge, Missouri, ten grandchildren, eighteen great grandchildren as well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. Erma was preceded in death by two brothers; Willard Short Jr. and James Short and her special long-time friends from Union City, Tennessee, Joann and Tom Carey. Erma was a 1952 graduate of Ironton High School. She was a stay at home Mom until her children were in school and then she worked as a cook for the Bismarck School District, the Farmington Community Hospital and the Farmington Senior Center. She was an active member of the Iron Mountain First Baptist Church, participating in numerous church activities. She loved the Lord and was not shy about sharing her belief and faith. Erma enjoyed trout fishing, cooking and shopping. She especially enjoyed dining out. She was a jokester with quite a sense of humor. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. from Iron Mountain First Baptist Church with Rev. John Canterberry officiating. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. prior to the service. Visitation will also be held on Tuesday, October 14, 2019 from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m from Bryson Funeral Home. Interment will be in Boss Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Boss Cemetery or the Iron Mountain First Baptist Church.