Erma Mae Holm

Erma (Hunt) Mae Holm

February 12, 1940 – October 3, 2025

Erma Mae Holm, age 85, of Marion, Illinois, was called home for assignment by God on Friday, October 3, 2025.

Erma was born in Cairo, Illinois, on February 12, 1940, the daughter of Ernest and Cassie (Clutts) Hunt. She married Paul Holm Jr. on August 5, 1979, in Carbondale, Illinois. He preceded her in death on April 3, 2024.

A proud graduate of the Cairo High School Class of 1958, Erma went on to earn her Bachelor of Science degree from Southern Illinois University in 1962 and her Master’s degree in 1964. She dedicated her career to special education, beginning in Cairo from 1962 to 1970 before moving to Marion, where she continued teaching until her retirement in 1994. Her compassion, patience, and devotion to her students left a lasting impact on many young lives.

Erma was a member of First United Methodist Church in Marion, where she enjoyed cooking for the Rotary Club meetings each Thursday. She volunteered with CASA for five years and at Hands of Hope, offering her time and kindness to causes close to her heart.

She loved reading, working puzzle books, traveling, and sharing laughter over lunch with her friends. Above all, she treasured time spent with her grandchildren, who lovingly knew her as “Grandma Vegas.”

Survivors include her children: Jay (Diana) Giesler of Marion and Jamie (Brett) Stacey of Wadsworth, Illinois; four grandchildren: Carson (Morgan) Montgomery of Marion, Jake Rich of St. Louis, Missouri, and Cooper and Drew Stacey of Wadsworth, Illinois; great-grandson: Oliver Montgomery of Marion; brother: Buddy Hunt; and sister: Norma Dodson.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Paul, and her first husband James Edwin Giesler.

In keeping with her generous spirit, Erma donated her body to the SIU School of Medicine in Carbondale. According to her wishes, there will be no services.

Arrangements were entrusted to Blue Funeral Home under the direction of Binkley-Ross. Those who wish to honor Erma’s memory are invited to share messages and condolences at www.binkleyross.com.