Erma Lerlene Paxton Rivas, 56, of Safford, AZ passed away at 6:58 a.m., Tuesday, April 19, 2016 in Surprise, AZ. She was born March 1, 1960 in Safford, to Billy Dewain & Erma Charlene Paxton.
She was united in marriage to Armando Rivas on February 18, 2011 also in Safford. Erma was a longtime resident of the Safford area. She was a faithful and longtime member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her family and friends were her greatest joy. She loved children and enjoyed her nieces and nephews. One of her favorite things to do was to go to the Gila Valley Temple and she loved that it was so close.
Erma is survived by her husband Armando Rivas, her brothers Lawrence (Laurie) Paxton, Terry (Mary) Paxton, Harry (Nancy) Paxton and sister Audrey (Ken) Heuck. She also leaves behind numerous loving relatives and friends.
Erma’s parents, Billy Dewain & Erma Charlene Paxton preceded her in death.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, April 23, 2016 at 9:00 a.m. with the funeral services to folllow at 10:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Safford Stake Center. Interment will be a private family service to be held at a later date at the Safford Cemetery.
Services are under the direction of McDougal’s Caldwell Funeral Chapel & Gila Valley Crematory. Online condolences may be extended at www.caldwellfuneralchapel.com.
