ERMA JEAN SMITH

Erma Jean Smith, was born to Mr. Jesse James Tyler, Sr. and Emma Victoria (Glover) Tyler in the small, warm embrace of Turell, Arkansas. She passed away on February 2, 2025 after a lengthy battle with cancer.

Erma’s life was woven with purpose and compassion. Her journey began early, finding passion for nurturing and guiding others as a teacher aide within the bustling Chicago school district. Her dedication blossomed further when she opened her home daycare in Kansas City, Missouri, creating a loving haven for many children. Later, she transitioned to becoming a private duty nurse in Dallas, Texas, a role she cherished until her retirement in 2006, touching countless lives with her unwavering devotion and gentle care.

Educationally, Erma enriched her knowledge at Olive Junior College and Northwestern College in Chicago, Illinois, equipping herself for a life dedicated to service. Her characteristics of loyalty, caring, and giving endeared her to those who crossed her path. She enjoyed traveling and the beauty of flowers in her yard. Renowned as “the best cook for the soul,” her culinary skills were a testament to her kindness, as each dish was prepared with an abundance of love she learned from her mother. Music was another one of her loves and resonated deeply with her spirit. In her youth she cherished the Sunshine Band where she sang with joy and accepted Christ. Her memories of the leadership at Nehemiah’s Temple Church in Blythville, Arkansas always brought her joy. Erma’s spirit remained intertwined with her faith, serving as a founding member of The Holy God Bible Way Church, under the leadership of Wayne Tyler. Affectionately known as “Mother Smith”, her nurturing nature and steadfast loyalty was felt in her church and community. She remained an active member, loving the Lord with all her heart until her transition.

Erma is survived by her beloved daughter, Hope Smith of Dallas, Texas; and daughter-in-law, Glynda Wichard-Smith of Dallas, Texas; along with her cherished siblings: Jesse Tyler of Chicago, Illinois, Wayne Tyler of Dallas, Texas, Herman Tyler of Herrin, Illinois, Hubert Tyler of Kansas City, Missouri, Dottie Panky of Michigan City, Indiana, and Bobbi Tyler of Bossier City, Louisiana.

Though her parents, five siblings, and son, Reginald Smith, have predeceased her, their legacy continues to flourish through the lives she touched. Mother Smith will forever be remembered not only for her contributions in service to others, but also for the love and warmth she bestowed upon all who knew her. As we gather to celebrate her beautiful life, let us remember the light and conversation she brought into our lives, as a testament to a soul whose journey was filled with unwavering love and grace.

A viewing will be held on February 13, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Golden Gate Funeral Home in Dallas, Texas. Her funeral service will follow on February 14, 2025, at 11:00 AM, at the Holy God Bible Way Holiness Church 2613 Gooch St Dallas, TX 75241

Erma Jean Smith will forever be remembered not only for her contributions in service to others but also for the love and warmth she bestowed upon all who were fortunate enough to know her. As we gather to celebrate her incredible life, let us remember the light she brought into our lives, a testament to a soul whose journey was filled with unwavering love and profound grace.