Erma Elizabeth Conley Dalton, 86, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025, in Palmyra, Virginia surrounded by her loved ones. Born on June 19, 1939, in Republic, West Virginia, Erma lived a life marked by devotion to her faith in God, family, friends and the countless children whose lives she impacted as an elementary school secretary.

Erma graduated from East Bank High School in 1956 and began her professional journey that same year at the West Virginia State Capitol in Charleston, working in the central office of the West Virginia Department of Employment Security. While this role marked the beginning of her career, it was her position as Secretary at Winfield Elementary School, where she served faithfully for 30 years from 1972 to 2002-that became her most cherished professional legacy. Her warm presence and steadfast dedication made a lasting impact on generations of students and staff alike.

A woman of deep faith, Erma accepted Christ as her Savior as a young girl while attending Chesapeake Methodist Church with her family. Her unwavering belief guided every aspect of her life and was evident in the love and care she extended to others. Whether supporting a friend through a difficult time or encouraging a child at school, Erma's kindness and compassion were constants.

Erma found immense joy in cheering on her family at their games, concerts, and graduations. She loved traveling with family and friends and had an eye for finding the best deals while shopping with her grandchildren-a pastime that brought laughter and treasured memories. Known for her kind gentle spirit, she was a proud mother, grandmother, aunt, and loyal friend who always put others before herself.

She is lovingly remembered by her son Mike Dalton and his wife Karen Walter Dalton; daughter Diane Dalton Anderson and her husband Steve Anderson; ten grandchildren: Christopher and Mayerly Anderson, Caroline Anderson, Evan Dalton, Matthew and Stacey Anderson, Stephanie Anderson, Alison Dalton, John and Bethany Anderson; and four great-grandchildren: Gabriella, Katleyna, Xiomara, and Jack Dalton Anderson; sister Joyce Jennings; and many nieces and nephews.

Erma was preceded in death by her beloved husband Herman Dalton; son Rick Dalton; grandson David Anderson; parents Letha and Stanton Conley; brother Lovell Conley; and sisters Meda Workman, Janice Jarrell, and Mary Cain.

Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched-with grace in every word spoken and love in every action taken. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on September 20, 2025, at 02:00 PM at Winfield Baptist Church at 12902 Winfield Road, Winfield, WV.

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Recent Activity

Earlier today

Mel Burke Cameron posted to the memorial.

Yesterday

Diane posted to the memorial.

Yesterday

Love and Prayers from the Lenhart family posted to the memorial.

16 Entries

Mel Burke Cameron

Earlier today

Dear Anderson Family,
As I shared in so much of your young family life as a babysitter, I had the pleasure and honor of knowing Erma through the eyes of her grandchildren. It was always a delight to see Erma, and it was never a guess at how much her grandchildren loved her. Erma's love was always sincere, always deep, and always kind. I treasure her memory, and I pray for you all in this time of grief. I am so sorry for your loss. May Jesus wrap you in his loving arms.
Love,
Mel Burke Cameron

Diane

Yesterday

Some sweet memories with mom

Love and Prayers from the Lenhart family

Yesterday

Erma lived such a glorious and impactful life. She affected more people in a positive way than she ever realized. In addition to all she did in the community at Winfield Elementary, her home was always an open and warm environment to dozens of teens in the 1980s during our high school years. She will always be remembered for her kindness and grace as well as the strength and faith she exhibited throughout personal tragedies. She leaves behind a massive legacy to her family and friends. We feel blessed to have known her.

Helena B Stamper

Yesterday

Diane and family, cherish all the wonderful memories you have with your mom/grandmother - she was a lovely person and always smiling. Love to you all - The Stampers, Helena, Rusty, Jim, and Katie.

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Cristi Goldberg

Yesterday

I am so sorry to hear of Erma´s passing. She shined her light on all with her kindness and generosity. Her loving spirit lives on in all of you.

John, Sam, Chris, Cj , Amber and babies

July 26, 2025

We were heart broken to hear of Ms Erma´s passing and wanted to express our deepest heartfelt condolences to all of you. She leaves behind an amazing legacy. The world lost one its most precious jewels! Sending all of you prayers and love May Ms Erma´s reunion with her beloved husband and son light up all of the Heavens! Rest in Paradise Ms Erma..

Mary Workman

July 26, 2025

Irma was a very special friend and Aunt by marriage to me. She just told me when I saw her last that she always considered me her niece and I felt so proud to be that. She will be missed I'm sure by all her family and friends. She was such a special lady who loved her family and cared deeply for all her friends. May God give her family peace and comfort.

Jenny Gadberry

July 26, 2025

Erma, you were definitely and Angel here on Earth I am happy your struggles are over and I know that you husband and son are so happy to have you once again. I shall miss you forever my forever friend!

Lori Taylor

July 26, 2025

What a legacy of love that lives on so beautifully in her family! So thankful to bask in the Light she, and you all, so brightly emanate.

Jerry Kerschner

July 26, 2025

So sorry Mike.

The Bible Study Group

Sent Sympathy Gifts including Flowers

Kelli Bright Harrah

July 26, 2025

We loved your sweet mom ~ I have so many fun memories of her. Her memory is a blessing! Much love to you all

Caron Hofer

July 26, 2025

May the many memories of dear Erma be a comfort and consolation. God be praised for a life lived for Him.

frank addingfon

July 26, 2025

We moved to Winfield in 1975. When my parents took me to Winfield Elementary the first person I met became a lifelong friend. "Mrs. Dalton" was the warmest, kindest and sweetest soul. Her warm smile and nature made a new kid feel at ease. Her and Jack Gordan ran a great school. Mrs. Dalton was one of those people that you´ve never heard an unkind word about. She was a fine Christian and everyone loved her. She will be missed. Prayers for the entire family. May her memory and legacy be eternal.

Frank Addington
Texas

Caroline McQuaig

July 26, 2025

Thank you for your unwavering kindness, hospitality and fun loving spirit, Erma. I remember coming over to visit John and he wasn´t home, so we just watched the mentalist together and talked about how handsome Simon Baker was. It was such a blessing to have you in my life as a young person, and you made growing old look good!

Joyce Jennings

July 26, 2025

I will love and miss you forever.
your loving sister,
Joyce

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