On Monday, August 31, 2026, Erma Bazemore Outlaw was lovingly called home to eternal rest, surrounded by God’s love, grace and peace. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend, and faithful servant of God. She was born on December 26, 1925, in Windsor, NC, to the late James and Emma Bazemore. She was a faithful and dedicated Domestic Engineer for Dr. Charles and Mrs. Elizabeth Umstott for over 42 years and their friendship remained steadfast for over 54 years. 

She was a dedicated member of Ivy Baptist Church for 57 years where she served faithfully on the Senior Usher Board. She was a beacon of kindness and strength, touching the lives of everyone she met. Her life was defined by unwavering love and devotion to her family and friends. She was known for her generous spirit and willingness to help anyone in need. Her warm smile and gentle nature were a source of comfort and joy to all who knew and loved her. For 100 years, she shared her love, wisdom, prayers, and gentle spirit. She was a woman of strong Christian faith who found joy in worship, scripture, and serving others. Her life was truly a beautiful testimony of grace, perseverance, and God’s goodness. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; grandparents; husband, David Turner Outlaw, Sr.; son, David Outlaw, Jr.; sisters, Latamae Bazemore, Mary Swaine and Hana Bazemore; brothers, Jessie Bazemore, James Bazemore, Scott Bazemore, Raymond Bazemore, Preacher Bazemore and Herbert Bazemore. Despite these profound losses, she remained a pillar of strength and resilience, teaching her family the importance of cherishing every moment and loving unconditionally. 

Her memory will fondly be treasured by her faithful and loving daughter, Linda Outlaw Roberts; grandchildren, Lakeasha Outlaw (Calvin), Takeala Outlaw, Zenee’ Outlaw and Nataya Kemmer; great-grandchildren, Caliysha Young, Caneasha Young, Caniyah Young, Tojiana Ray, Treveon Samuel, Teayla Outlaw, Tashawn Hill, Treshawn Hill, Zenaja Savage and Heaven Queen; great great-grandchildren, Dy'mier Walker, Maylani Smith, Aceyon Smith, and Nylah Norville; god children, Marvin Baker, LaShonda Gillis, Lamont Gillis, Phyllis Meekins, Mark Umstott, Kelly Umstott (Andrew) and James Umstott; brother-in-laws, Joshua Outlaw and Leon Outlaw (Sarita); nieces, nephews and a host of other family and friends.

 Erma fought the good fight, she finished the race and she kept the faith. Her earthly journey has ended, but her eternal life with Christ has just begun. Let us rejoice in the promise that we will see her again in God’s heavenly kingdom.

Viewing will be held Friday, September 18, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel, 1601-27th Street, Newport News, Va. A homegoing service will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 19, 2026 at Ivy Baptist Church, 50 Maple Avenue, Newport News, Va. Interment will follow in  Pleasant Shade Cemetery, Hampton,VA.