Erma Catherine Ballard

Erma Catherine Sherwood Ballard, a beloved member of the Cleveland community, went to be with the Lord on April 8, 2024.

Erma was born on January 25, 1931, to parents J.D. Sherwood and Willie Rebecca Peterson Sherwood in Indianola, MS in Sunflower County in MS.

A visitation for Erma will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2024, from 1:00pm to 2:00pm at Ray Funeral Home with her Celebration of Life at 2:00pm. Burial will immediately follow at North Cleveland Cemetery.

Erma worked as a Beautician for many years. Erma's unwavering faith was evident in her active membership at First Baptist Church, where she found solace and community.
 
Erma is preceded in passing by her parents, J.D. Sherwood and Willie Rebecca Peterson Sherwood  her loving husband Homer Ballard, Sr., her sister Mable Byrd and her brother Jerry Sherwood.

Erma is survived by her son Homer (Ginger) Ballard, Jr., her grandchildren David Ballard and William Podraza, her great grandchildren Max Ballard, Haley Ballard, Madison Ballard, Logan Podraza, Keirah Podraza and her sister-in-law Charlotte Sherwood, one nephew, Jeff Byrd, two nieces, Belinda Thomas, and Regina Thorsen. One great niece, Aldan Byrd, Four great nephews, Jackson & Joe Byrd, Russell Quinton, and Sammy Byrd. 

Erma's legacy of faith, love, and kindness will continue to inspire those who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace, knowing she was cherished and admired by many.