Erma Green

Erma Blynn McKnight Green, 99, of Safford entered into eternal life on March 16, 2014. Erma was born in Kelsey, Texas to Will and Emma Dickason McKnight on November 4, 1914. Erma, the second of eight children, had three sisters and four brothers. In her early years she grew up working on the small family farm. She graduated as Valedictorian of Gilmer High in Texas and then worked to save enough money to eventually attend the University of Texas. Erma met Thatcher born Welden M. Green while he was serving in the Army stationed in Texas during WWII and the two were married on June 7, 1943, a union which lasted 67 years. Following Weldens service in WWII, the couple settled in Arizona and raised their family in Safford. During their early years of marriage, Erma did many odd jobs including picking cotton and clerical work. Later she spent many years working along side Welden in their family businesses at Greens Market and Western Auto where she was a big reason for their success. Erma was a woman of tremendous faith and humility and was devoted member of the LDS church serving in many callings including Relief Society President , Stake Relief Society Board, teacher, Young Womens leader and many other positions throughout the years. She, and her husband, served for four years in the Mesa Arizona LDS Temple. Erma was an avid reader and also enjoyed being a member of the Pi Rho Kappa Book Club for over 40 years, and made many friends as a member of the Safford Womens Club. Erma was a loving mother and grandmother who will be remembered for her love, compassion and devotion to her family. Even in her final days, weeks and months, Erma unselfishly showed great concern for others, friends and family alike. Erma was preceded in death in 2010 by her husband Welden Green and her daughter Sharon (age two, 1952). Erma is survived by her children David Green (Glenna), Ronald Green (Candy), Janice Holladay (Dale), Tom Green (Ruth Anne) and Philip Green (Patti). Erma was blessed with twenty-three (23) grandchildren and forty-seven (47) great grandchildren. Funeral services are scheduled for Tuesday March 25th, 3:00PM with a viewing beginning at 2:00PM at the LDS Church on 20th Street. There will also be a viewing Monday March 24th from 6:00PM to 8:00PM at the McDougals-Caldwell Funeral Chapel in Safford.