Erma D. (Wainman) Miller

Erma Miller, age 86 of Barry, IL and formerly of Griggsville, IL passed away Wednesday, October 11, 2023, at Barry Healthcare and Senior Living in Barry, IL. She was born in rural Griggsville, IL February 4, 1937, to George and Minnie Whited Wainman. Erma married Cleon ‘Cork’ Miller September 10, 1954, and he preceded her in death.

Erma attended country school in Griggsville until the 8th grade and went on to Griggsville High School, graduating in 1954. Over the years, Erma worked for Trio Manufacturing, Two Rivers F.S., Brown Shoe, Montgomery Ward and was a GTE operator. Erma and Cork ran Millers Red & White grocery store in Griggsville for several years. She later worked at Pike County Mental Health as a receptionist and finished out her career managing Griggsville Jiffi Stop. Erma was an avid horsewoman who delighted in showing her horses, enjoyed trail rides and was a member of the Griggsville Saddle Club. She loved country and western music and celebrated this passion by attending Fan Fair in Nashville and many other concerts. Erma took great pride in her yard and always enjoyed working in her flower beds. She was a good cook and excellent baker who often treated friends and family to her home-made noodles and banana cream pies.

Erma is survived by son, Greg (Debbie) Miller of Bunker Hill, IL; daughter, Debbie DeFrates of Montgomery, TX; six grandchildren, Alicia (Troy) Smith, Jeremy Miller, Andrew (Ruthie) Miller, Brent (Stephanie) DeFrates, Heather (Heath) Bounds and Brian (Amber) DeFrates; fifteen great-grandchildren, Mason, Brayden, Rylan, Chaddum, Karsyn, Wes, Falyn, Maverick, Emmie, Kenny, Kaethe, Josh, Jackson, Brooklynne and Nathan; and several nieces and nephews also survive.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Minnie Wainman; husband, Cleon ‘Cork’ Miller; two brothers, Floyd ‘Sonny’ Wainman and Lee Wainman; two sisters, Beulah Turnage and Dorothy Williams; great-granddaughter, Kaitlin Bounds; nephew, Tony Wainman; and son-in-law, Gail DeFrates.

Cremation rites have been accorded and graveside service will be held 10:00 AM, Saturday, October 28, 2023, at Griggsville Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to be made to Barry Healthcare and Senior Living Activity Fund. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com. Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements.

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