Erma Lois Bage Counts began life in Pevely, MO, on May 13, 1931. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Arnold R Counts; by her mother and father, Maude and Ellis Bage; and her older brother, Earl Bage. Those who remain to share memories of Erma include many nieces and nephews, many great-nieces and great-nephews, great-grandnieces and great-grandnephews, former neighbors, former colleagues, and good friends who still live in The Bluffs.

At age 18, Erma began work as a telephone operator, one who connected calls through a switchboard. She eventually advanced to the Southwestern Bell Business Office in Ballwin where she continued to provide good service to many. She worked there until her retirement in 1989.

After meeting Arnold Counts in 1954, Erma and Arnold were married on July 27, 1957. After a short time in a home in South County, they lived and worked in Ballwin, MO. Erma's home was known as the place to go for a cookie, a band-aid, a dog boarding facility, and an ear to listen to anyone's problems.

In 2007, Erma and Arnold moved to Meramec Bluffs where they enjoyed wonderful times and made many great friends. Erma is still remembered as a several-time shuffleboard grand champion, and she enjoyed serving as a secretary on a committee of residents at the Bluffs. Erma always offered a smile and  kind words for friends; she looked after and cared for many people and pets throughout her life.

Erma peacefully entered her eternal rest on January 17, 2026. A celebration of life service will be held at a later date.

The family asks that memorial gifts be made to AccentCare Hospice Foundation , 3660 S. Geyer Road, Suite 120, St. Louis, MO 63127.

As a service of the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, friends may sign the family's on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.