Erma Bateman

Herrin- Erma Darlene Bateman, 82, of Herrin, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends at 7:15 PM, Saturday, February 11, 2023 at West Side Care Center in West Frankfort.
Erma was born on September 29, 1940 in Herrin to William “Willy” and Stella Bella (Glenn) Brandon. She married Robert Bateman, Sr. In Carterville on September 7, 1963. He preceded her in death on May 25, 2005.
She was a longtime member of Christian Covenant Fellowship in Carterville. Erma was a hardworking woman who began a long career as payroll supervisor at Smoller Brothers in Herrin and then was an original hire at Famous Barr in Carbondale where she worked in the womens department.
In her spare time she enjoyed playing dominos, word searches and watching game shows like “Jeopardy” and “Wheel of Fortune”. She was loved by many and made many cemetery baskets for friends and family. She was Miss Betty Crocker in 1957 and was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan. Her favorite player was Willie McGee. She was a fighter and will be dearly missed by all who loved her.
Survivors include her beloved son- Robert “Bobby” Bateman, Jr and friend Jenny Baggett of Herrin; four brothers and sisters- Loren Brandon of St. Charles, Mo, Leon Brandon of Scottsdale, AZ, Lorene Armstrong of Carbondale and Dolores Hamilton of Herrin and numerous nieces nephews and cousins. The family would also like to thank caregivers- Melody with Residential Hospice and Faith, Kaitlyn, Jessica and many other nurses at West Side Care Center.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and siblings- Zella Mae Faro, Billy Lee Brandon, Danny Brandon and Raymond Brandon, who died as a child.
A graveside funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, February 22, 2023 at Herrin City Cemetery. Rev. Ralph Brandon will officiate. A visitation will be from 10:00 AM until 10:45 AM, Wednesday, February 22, 2023 at Van Natta Funeral Home in Herrin.