Erma Lane Mindling

Erma Lane Johnson born in West Virginia and a Coal Miner’s Daughter, 75 years ago.

Erma always said that pictures of children playing on company properties were a lie.  Her Brother Bob, Sister Dotty were always as black as the coal dust surrounding them.  That dust affected her lungs to the day she died.  Under mysterious circumstances her family moved to California, where her father (who died of Black Lung Disease) made a living for the family as a County Band Member, expert on the Mandolin.  Erma came from an incredibly talented and nationally known musical family - performers of which are among the collections of the Smithsonian Institute.  Having come from such a Family - Erma couldn’t hold a note.

Erma grew to be a real Valley Girl in Los Angeles.  However, her mental acuity was not to be discovered until her late teens. 

Pressured into an early marriage, she found much comfort and Joy in her first daughter Sherry who was forcefully taken from Erma by threat of violence by in-laws.

After a brief period of depression, Erma started from that point on her quest for adventure.  Having lived in half the southern and western states she left many interesting friends and professions ultimately ended in her be a holistic and Massage Therapist with equipment to perform computer diagnostics of the human body.

Erma has always been a lover of Christ and had yearned to be a missionary.

Another marriage, and more joy and comfort – Jessica and Cassandra.

After having plaguing questions about the bible answered by Jehovah’s Witnesses, she found her calling. She understood the Father of The Son of God is also her father, and his name is Jehovah.

Her third and meaningful marriage 23 years ago had given her the platform to fully extend her interests in art, travel, music, gardening, and her honest love of people.  Being the gregarious and optimistic “we can get things done” person she was, she put herself in front of literally hundreds of persons. Sharing “this good news of the kingdom” to all she met, and her goal of moving to a Foreign Language Nation was realized, three times.

Health issues had always hindered Erma in ultimately fulfilling her goals.  This move to Falls City from Ecuador 9 years ago was a result of one of those Issues.

Erma has been loved by many - and will be missed by all who knew her.

Dear Mom,

  This is what you wanted, a written letter from us girls.  All three of us expressed to you, our never ending love, and many feelings, before you left us.  We know in our hearts, you passed away in peace, but I’m going to admit, our hearts, will always miss you, your smiles, laughter, affection, and so many hugs.  I know you are proud of the strong women we have become, you told me so.

  I love you then, and love you now.  You will always be close to my heart, a treasure, and a shinning gem.  Until my last breath here on earth, I will love you.  I will meet you again someday.

  I love you mom!  XXOO

  Sherry Lane

Our Mom, Erma Lane 

She had no boundaries, and loved life. She aimed high and never looked back. That look in her eyes, and she was ready to go. Always in need of a change or adventure and determined to find it. That need to let go, move on, and to simply be.

 Ready for her next adventure. 

Jess

Our mom, Erma lived life in color and a thousand times over.

She saw the world as something to discover. Everything through a nurturing lens.

She knew everything, but still chased illumination to the shadows.

Our mom taught us to ask questions and find resonating paths.

Mom,

There is so much I could say and some of it you already know.

Somewhere in my dreams, I'll find you.

Thank you for being my mom.

Love you to eternity, 

Cass

It was Erma's request that no floral gifts be given to the family in her memory.

Should you wish to make a charitable donation, here’s a link to Erma’s favorite charity -https://donate.jw.org/ui/E/donate-home.html#/donate/WW

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