Erma Lee Alexander

Celebrating Erma Shackles Alexander “Mrs. Kitt” Joyful Spirit

A life filled with laughter, a heart of gold: remembering Erma Shackles Alexander, affectionately known as Mrs. Kitt or Mother Kitt. She was more than just a friend; she was a wife, a mother, and a grandmother—not only to us, her family, but to everyone who knew her. She was the beacon in our lives, always armed with a smile and a story that could brighten even the darkest room.

Erma was born on January 28, 1928, in Littig, Texas, to Maud E. Armstrong and James Hulon Shackles. She attended local schools until the 8th grade. Erma was a homemaker, taking on various odd jobs throughout her life. Her most cherished role was as a grandmother. She loved and adored them. At the time of her passing, she had many grandchildren—too many to count—because she loved them all and made sure no one was left out.

Mrs. Kitt was united in holy matrimony with Mr. Bonnie Alexander. They raised their children together and created wonderful memories. They continued to grow their family and shared a strong bond until his death in 2021. She loved her children and grandchildren dearly, with no boundaries for them. Her family and friends cherished her, always holding a special place for each of them in her heart.

Erma lived an active and fulfilling life out of love for her family and friends. Her legacy is invaluable and will endure forever. Erma is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Bonnie Alexander, two brothers Troy and James Shackles, her sister Maud Mae Shackles, four sons Melvin Robinson, Frank Sterling, Arthur Sterling Jr., and Bobby Greg, two daughters Berta Marie Sterling and Gloria Faye Shackles, as well as her step-siblings Vera, Litt, Eva, Willie Mae, and R. T.

After witnessing many generations, Erma lived a grateful and enriched life. Her legacy will be long remembered by her four boys: James L. Johnson (Jo), Joseph Jimmy Jakson (Jackie), Reverend Freddie Shackles (Lela), and Gregory Greg (Sabrina), along with her three girls: Erma Jean Johnson, Rachel Ann Sterling-Brown, and Betty Joe Swisher. She is also survived by five generations of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many other relatives and friends, including her circle of communities.

Our Mother, Forever My Mother, Our Angel, Our Love

When my mother wraps her arms around us

We are encircled by the love of God

When she speaks words of wisdom to us

I hear the whisper of the Lord

When she wipes away our tears

We are touched by the hand of God

We know that she is an Angel sent to us

Specially from up above

She is always beside us

Forever our Angel, forever our Love…

Erma Lee Alexander, 97, of Elgin, passed away on Monday, February 24, 2025. Family and Friends will gather for Visitation at Elgin Funeral Home on Friday, March 14, 2025, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM. A Funeral Service will be held at Elgin Funeral Home on Saturday, March 15th at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow at Littig Cemetery.