Erma Tuckenberry

The legacy of Erma Jean Tuckenberry began on November 18, 1939, when she was born in Vicksburg, Mississippi, to the union of Walter Jones Sr. and Lubertha Jones-Bedford. Throughout her life, she touched the hearts of family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her, leaving behind a legacy of faith, kindness, resilience, and unconditional love that will be treasured for generations to come.

Erma received her early education at Washington Grade School in Maywood, Illinois, and continued her academic journey at Proviso East High School. She later attended Operation Uplift, where she obtained her secretarial certification.

In 1956, she married the love of her life, Monroe Tuckenberry Jr., and from this union they were blessed with five children: Charlene, Tyrone, Victor, Kerry, and LaDonna. Together, they attended Rock of Ages Baptist Church in Maywood, Illinois, where Erma accepted Christ as her personal Savior, became a lifelong member, and was later honored as one of the "Mothers of the Church," a role she embraced with great joy and pride.

Erma utilized her secretarial certification throughout her career, working with several organizations, including the Lions Club, Lindop Elementary School, and Spiegel. In addition to her professional life, she found her greatest joy in her family and friends. Erma was affectionately known as "GG" to her great-grandchildren, a title she wore with pride and love, as she poured her heart into caring for and spending time with them, creating lasting memories that will forever be cherished.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter Jones Sr. and Lubertha Jones-Bedford; her beloved husband, Monroe Tuckenberry Jr.; her son, Kerry; her daughter-in-law, Karen; and her brother, Eric.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children: Charlene (Ronald), Tyrone, Victor, and LaDonna; her grandchildren: Tyrone Monroe, Brittani, Kerri Anne, Khadejah, and Jasmine; and her great-grandchildren: Jaiden Monroe, Madison, Kingston, Khapri, Mason, DaVeja, Ta'Jeanay, and Ta'Jean. She is also survived by her siblings: Thurman Jr. (Denise), Arlene, and Francis, along with a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.

At this time, the family wishes to express a special and heartfelt thank you to those who helped abundantly during the final chapter of Erma’s journey: her sister-friends, Ms. Gert, Ms. Lynn, Ms. Dorothy, and Ms. McCray; along with LaRon (son-in-love), Tom and James (neighbors), Joe (caregiver), and Denise (hair stylist and friend). Your compassion, presence, and unwavering support brought great comfort and will always be deeply appreciated.

Erma’s life was a testament to love, strength, and faith. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

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