Erma L (Watts) Niehaus

Erma L. Niehaus, 92, of Litchfield, IL, passed away Friday, July 22, 2022 at 11:10 P.M. at the HSHS St. Francis Hospital in Litchfield, IL.

She was born on February 7, 1930 in Litchfield, IL a daughter of the late Argale and Verda (Hall) Watts.

Erma married Lynis E. Niehaus, Sr. on April 14, 1957 at the Union Avenue Christian Church in Litchfield, IL and he preceded her in death on April 8, 2004.

Erma graduated Litchfield High School with the class of 1947. Erma previously worked as a bank teller at the Litchfield National Bank and retired as a Legal Secretary from the law office of Paul and Bart McWilliams at the McWilliams McWillams Law Firm in Litchfield, IL.

Erma was a devout, lifelong member of the Union Avenue Christian Church in Litchfield, IL where she devoted her time to serving God and His People. Erma was also passionate about volunteer work and dedicated her time to several organizations, including Hearts United, the Litchfield Food Pantry, and enjoyed volunteering at local poll sites during election time. She also belonged to the Phi Sigma Nu Sority. 

In her younger years, Erma enjoyed bowling and telling the grandchildren about her time spent on the basketball court during her school days. She also enjoyed a good cup of coffee and playing cards. Most importantly, she enjoyed spending time with her family and being present and active in her grandchildren’s lives.  She will be greatly missed by all those knew her.

Erma leaves behind her children,

2 sons, Ronald (Cindy) Niehaus of Litchfield, IL & Richard Niehaus of Litchfield, IL

Daughter, Janice Niehaus of Litchfield, IL

8 grandchildren,  Holly (Joe) Prange, Kayli (Jason) Boehler, Ryan (Erin) Niehaus, Taylor Niehaus,

Zachary (Rachel) Niehaus, Chandler Niehaus, Chelsea (Blake Shannon) Lapolice, Hunter Niehaus

9 great-grand children

1 brother, Art Watts

2 sisters, Ellen Clelland and Joan Davis

Many nieces and nephews,

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son, Lynis Earl Niehaus, Jr., 1 brother and 4 sisters.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, July 28 at 7:00 P.M. at the Union Avenue Christian Church in Litchfield, IL. Reverend Cassie Sexton-Riggs will officiate. Visitation will be Thursday from 5:00 P.M. until time of service at Union Avenue Christian Church in Litchfield, IL. Private family burial will take place at a later date at the Elm Lawn Cemetery in Litchfield, IL.  The family suggests memorial contributions be directed to the Union Avenue Christian Church, Hearts United, or either of the local Food Pantries.

Litchfield Family Funeral Service is honored to serve the family. To view the online obituary, leave a condolence, sign the registry, or light a candle, please visit litchfieldffs.com.

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