Erma Marine Scott

Erma “Marine” Bates Scott, age 91, of Sherwood, Arkansas, passed away on May 3, 2026.

She was born on October 11, 1934, in Trafalgar, Arkansas to William Archie Bates and Effie Bates.

She was the beloved wife of the late Kenneth Scott, with whom she shared many years of marriage and a life grounded in faith, hard work, and perseverance.

Marine dedicated her career to nursing and served as the Assistant Director of Nurses at Baptist Memorial Hospital. She proudly worked there from the day it opened its doors until the time it relocated. She was respected for her strong work ethic, steady leadership, and compassionate care. She had a natural ability to take charge when needed, paired with a thoughtful and giving spirit that left a lasting impression on those around her.

She was a woman of strong will and independence, lovingly known for being a bit hard headed at times, but always with a sense of humor close at hand. She cared deeply for others, showed it in both big and small ways, and never stopped growing throughout her life. She enjoyed beating just about everyone in a game of marbles, calling friends and family to catch up, and spending time in nature. She especially enjoyed going out to eat with her neighbors Larry and Sherlene and going to church with them at Kellogg Valley Baptist Church. She also loved keeping up with her great grandchildren, as well as the many “fur” great grandbabies she enjoyed seeing through daily pictures. She will be remembered for her strength, her wit, and the simple comforts she gave so freely, especially her famously great back scratches.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William Archie and Effie Bates; her husband, Kenneth Scott; her daughter, Judith Elaine Scott; and her grandson, Kenneth Mize.

She is survived by her two daughters, Cindy Rollins and Joyce Harris; four grandchildren, Michael Holland, Amanda Adams, Victoria Rollins, and Megan Rollins; and four great grandchildren, Trey and Anna Holland, and Cooper and Grace Adams; her siblings, Nell Hurt, Ervin Bates, and Earlene Corbin; along with extended loved ones.

A visitation will be held at Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 12:00 p.m. A graveside service will follow at Sumner Cemetery.