Elberta “Bertie” Updike Herman

Elberta “Bertie” Updike Herman, passed away on February 12, 2025. Bertie was born in Springfield Township, Franklin County, Indiana on June 2, 1932, to Roland and Sylvia (Hinds) Updike.

In addition to her parents, Bertie was preceded in death by her husband, W. M. “Butch” Herman, and her brother, Donald R. Updike.

She is survived by her daughter, Brenda Herman; son, Brandal Herman; sister, Marlene Delome and husband Leon; sister, Gloria Jackson; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Bertie never met a stranger and made friends everywhere she went. She was funny, independent, a diligent worker, had multiple interests, hobbies, and was an entrepreneur. She began a secretarial career at Herrin Transportation, Equitable Bag, Firestone, and Owens-Illinois. Later she became a realtor and owner of Cardinal Real Estate. Being an avid reader, she opened a bookstore in Bridge City aptly named The Bookworm.

At age 83 she entered her first 5K and proceeded to win ten first place medals. She was a loyal walker with the “Walk with a Doc” group and the First Baptist Church walkers. 

She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, William Diamond Chapter, promoting historical preservation, education, and patriotism. She proudly supported our veterans and volunteered at the Veteran’s Stand Down. 

Bertie was an exceptional writer and speaker with a passion for genealogy. She loved researching her ancestors and assisting others in their family search. Her other organizations included the Writer’s Guild, The Huguenot Society, The Hubbell Society, Society of Indiana Pioneers, Orange County Historical Society, and Friends of the Library. 

Visitation will be at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, March 6, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Funeral Service will be at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Jeff Bell officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery in West Orange.