Erna M. McCormick

1931 - 2026

Erna M. McCormick

Newport, NH - Erna Marie McCormick of Newport and most recently Langdon Place in Keene passed away January 9, 2026 in her beautiful apartment surrounded by good friends and amazing staff members. Through her journey of 94 years, she touched many lives with her quick wit, wisdom and an unwavering spirit of perseverance. She was born April 16, 1931, in Worcester, MA, the daughter of the late Albert Milton Erikson and Lillian Josephine [Train] Erikson.

In addition to her parents, Erna was predeceased by her ex-husband, James McCormick, and her sisters, Ella Casey and Mary O'Connor. She is survived by her nieces and their husbands, Patricia & Elbert Dickinson of Franklin, Jamie & Christopher Teague of North Walpole, and Elan & Shawn Flattery of Boscawen, as well as many great friends she considered part of her extended family.

Erna proudly served her country during the Korean Conflict as a weather observer in the US Air Force. After her service, she attended Clark University where she received her Bachelor's Degree in Geography and Education. She had many different and exciting jobs including working for the Worcester Gas Company, United Aircraft, and the Hartford CT Police Department as a Detective. After moving to NH while working towards her Masters Degree in Human Services and Education from New England College, she worked in custodial and maintenance services. After her graduation, she secured a job with the State of NH from which she retired as one of the first woman Liquor Inspectors with the State Liquor Commission, spending many years in the Manchester area before moving to Newport. Erna quickly became part of the community participating in many charitable and town organizations, while always making time to hit the links at John Cain Golf Course. She loved the game and often encouraged others to enjoy themselves, it was all about the camaraderie. One of her most memorable accomplishments was winning the 1981 Ladies' Presidents Trophy. She also enjoyed playing the piano, doing crossword puzzles and other mind teasers as well as watching her favorite sports teams – the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots. Erna believed in the sanctity of marriage and took great pleasure in officiating marriage ceremonies across NH as a Justice of the Peace. Many of the couples she joined are still together and thriving today!!

After retirement, in addition to these passions, she embarked on many trips with her sister around the world including Australia, Hawaii, New Zealand, China, Egypt, Israel, England, Ireland, Wales, and the Panama Canal. Cruising on boats also provided amazing adventures in the Mediterranean visiting Italy, Greece & Turkey as well as cruising the Nile and a paddle-wheeler down the Mississippi. Traveling in their 70's and 80's, being history/geography buffs they saw many of the world's wonders. One of her last trips was driving across country to tour Alaska with a long-time friend.

Funeral Arrangements are being handled by the Newton-Bartlett Funeral Home in Newport. There will be no viewing hours.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Langdon Place of Keene, 136A Arch Street on Friday, January 16th at 1:00 pm for the residents and staff. Refreshments will be served.

A funeral service officiated by Pastor Tracey Bailey and Reverend Daniel Adam will be held on Saturday, January 17th at the South Congregational Church, 20 Church Street, Newport beginning at 10:00 am. A luncheon will follow the service where friends will be encouraged to share their memories at the Newport Senior Center, 76 South Main Street, Newport, from 11:30 – 1:30 p.m. Please feel free to attend any or all of the events planned.

Donations in honor of Erna should be made to any FOB Chapter or Animal Rescue Shelter. Floral arrangements can be ordered at Petal Patch in Newport.

The family would like to thank the compassionate and caring nurses and employees of Langdon Place in Keene and the caring nurses and aides from Home Healthcare, Hospice and Community Services. Also, her good friends who helped her through this final phase of her earthly life. God Bless you all!