Alma Odessa Marze Erwin

Alma Odessa Marze Erwin, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away on September 10, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on January 4, 1932, in Florien, Louisiana, Alma dedicated her life to her family and community. A true homemaker at heart, she worked tirelessly, raising eight children and filling their lives with love, laughter, and valuable life lessons. 

Alma was known throughout her life for her passions-crocheting, sewing, and creating beautiful artwork. Even into her later years, her spirit shone brightly at the Merryville Nursing Center, where she became affectionately known as "the Coffee Lady." Each day at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, she served coffee to up to 60 residents, remembering everyone's favorite way to enjoy it, whether with sugar, cream, or just black. Alma's servant heart was a beacon of kindness, as she encouraged everyone around her, always reminding them that things would be alright. 

Grounded in her faith, Alma lived her life based on Christ's teachings. She took comfort in her Bible, and each week she observed the Sabbath with devotion. Her unwavering encouragement extended to her children, often reminding them to "get up and try it again" whenever they faced challenges. "See you later, Alligator" became a joyful phrase exchanged with her children, to which she would always reply, "After a while, Crocodile," never missing a beat. Alma's strength and resilience were evident in everything she did, whether it was washing clothes with a scrub board or stretching meals so that all her kids were well-fed. She may not have had much in terms of material possessions, but she was rich in love and compassion, forever willing to sacrifice for her family. 

Alma is survived by her sons, Lynn Erwin and Brenda of Apple Springs, TX, Daniel Erwin and Shelia of Mobile, AL, Benjamin Erwin and Barbara of Colmesniel, TX; daughters, Doreen Sonnier and David of Ragley, LA, Littie Crumpler and Danny of Dry Creek, LA, Loma Eaves of California; brother, Alvin Marze of Cleveland, TX; sisters, Isabelle Eaves of Merryville, LA and Ceilestia Terrell and Nathan of Merryville, LA; twelve grandchildren, twenty-two great grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends. 

Alma was preceded in death by her husband, Earl Erwin; parents, James and Odessa Marze; son, Robert Erwin; daughter, Lynda Amerson. 

A public viewing will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Myers Colonial Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM. Reverend Sullivan Turner and Reverend Charlie Bailey will officiate the service. Pallbearers will be Brandon Neal, Trey Loewer, Kyle Crumpler, Richard Eaves, Nathan Terrell, David Terrell. Alma will be laid to rest later that day at Magnolia Cemetery in Ragley, Louisiana.

She will be dearly missed by all who knew her, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of everyone she touched. The family would like to express a heartfelt thank you to the staff of Grand Cove Nursing and Rehabilitation, the staff of Harbor Hospice outpatient and the staff of Harbor Hospice Hospital for their care and compassion shown throughout Alma’s time with them.