Erma Louise Boester

Erma Louise Boester (née Moulton) of Marion, Illinois passed away on May 14, 2025, at Sunshine Gardens in Marion, leaving behind a legacy of faith, friendship, and fabulous style. Born on October 6, 1931, in southern Illinois, she was the daughter of George and Hazel (McCombs) Moulton.

Erma was a proud and faithful member of the First Church of God in Marion, where she served as the beloved “chief babysitter” in the nursery for many years. Countless little ones learned about Jesus through her loving care, and she always had a smile and a story ready to share.

She was the longtime office manager at Twin County Farm Services, where she formed many cherished, lifelong friendships. Erma had a love for adventure—traveling to beautiful places like Australia and New York City, where she proudly visited the Statue of Liberty. She had a soft spot for cookbooks and baby dolls, a true collector at heart.

Erma adored spending time with her family, especially during holidays or lake visits. She never missed a chance to go shopping, and she was always dressed to the nines—never without her signature hairstyle, kept fresh thanks to a hair appointment streak that spanned over 40 years. Stylish, sweet, and sharp, she never met a stranger and was a pleasure to visit with.

In her 80s, she liked to tell the story (with a smile) of being pulled over for speeding not once, not twice, but three times—and never once getting a ticket. She considered that her personal claim to fame.

Gospel music was the soundtrack of Erma’s life. She sang and played at her church and performed with several quartets over the years. Her love for music, fellowship, and faith was evident to all who knew her.

Erma married the love of her life, Herman Boester, on December 29, 1950. They shared many wonderful years together before his passing on April 8, 1994.

She is survived by her nieces Melody Merrell, Priscilla McGinniss, and Janice McGinniss- Rees; her niece-by-love Randi (Mike) Houston; nephew Joseph McGinniss; brother-in-law Rudolph (Roma) Boester; and a host of other relatives and dear friends who were like family. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Herman, her niece Madra Merrell, and her sisters Norma Merrell and Phyllis McGinniss.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Blue Funeral Home under the direction of Binkley- Ross. Visitation will be held Tuesday, May 20, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Blue Funeral Home, 1704 N. Court Street, Marion, Illinois. Funeral services will begin at 1:00 PM with Reverend Gary Clark officiating. Erma will be laid to rest at Mount Pleasant Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial donations be made to Samaritan’s Purse. Envelopes will be available at the service or can be mailed to P.O. Box 39, Marion, Illinois 62959.

To leave your online condolences, please visit www.binkleyross.com.