Emma E. Lewis of Glen Carbon, Illinois passed away at the age of 101, at 4:55 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 17, 2019 at Liberty Village in Maryville.
Her love of Jesus Christ and for life itself kept her young and was a joy to have known. She was born July 12, 1918 in Du Quoin, Illinois, a daughter of the late William and Otillie (German) Emling.
She worked as a seamstress for 33 years in various garment factories. During World War II, she was a "Rosie the Riveter," representing the women who worked in factories during the war.
She was a faithful and dedicated member of The First Baptist Church of Maryville since 1987 and enjoyed being a member of the Senior Ladies Sunday school Class. She enjoyed her years of crocheting, quilting and knitting and will be remembered for the love and special times shared with her family and friends.
Emma is survived by a niece, Mary Jo Varnum of Metropolis; her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, James and Wilma Shoemaker of Centralia; sister-in-law Joan Emling of Du Quoin; many great-nieces and great-nephews; other extended family; church family and many cherished friends.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three husbands, Cloyd Shoemaker, Charles "Chuck" Hawthorne and Lloyd Lewis; two brothers, Carl Emling and Fred Emling; a sister, Louise Lively and a nephew, Allan Lively.
In celebration of her life, visitation will begin at 10 a.m. in the chapel at The First Baptist Church of Maryville, State Route 162, Maryville, Illinois on Thursday, Nov. 21.
Visitation will conclude at noon when the funeral service will begin with Rev. Dr. Tom Hufty officiating.
Visitation will continue on Friday, Nov. 22, from 10 a.m. to noon at Searby Funeral Home in Tamaroa, Illinois. A procession to Tamaroa City Cemetery will follow for a graveside service with Rev. Rodger Randolph officiating.
Memorials are suggested to First Baptist Church, 7110 IL-162, Maryville, IL 62062. Irwin Chapel of Glen Carbon (www.irwinchapel.com) and Searby Funeral Home of Tamaroa are in charge of arrangements.
For additional information or to sign the memorial guest register, visit www.searbyfuneralhomes.com.
