Erma Jean Mayes was born on August 6, 1937, to Daniel Vernon Simpson and Dorothy Myrtle Simpson. She was preceded in death by both parents and three brothers, Bernard Simpson, Alvin Simpson, and Daniel Simpson, Jr. Mrs. Mayes leaves behind several nephews, nieces, and cousins.

She was married on July 25, 1959, to Robert Curtis Mayes until his death on July 9, 1997. Through their union were born three children, Pamela A. Mayes-Jones, Michael A. Mayes, and Wesley B. Mayes. Her children blessed her with three grandchildren, Jordan A. Mayes, Mason R. Mayes, and Camilyah M. Jones. Mrs. Mayes was a member of Evangelist Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church where she had a host of friends and family members, which included her best friend, Phyllis Cavanaugh. She loved to decorate for various events at the church and be a financial supporter.

Erma Jean Simpson-Mayes graduated from Jack Yates High School. She was a proud alumnus of Texas Southern University, and her favorite phrase was "All roads lead to Texas Southern".