Wilma "Jean" Emmons

Wilma "Jean" Emmons passed away peacefully on Mother's Day, May 11, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was 95 years old. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Eugene; her parents, Archie and Elsie Jones; her sister, Lois; her brothers, John, Arch, and Theo; two beloved grandchildren and one great grandchild. 

Jean was the caring mother of four children: Janet (Steven), Michael (Marianne), Joni (Jon), and Juli (Christopher). Her family was her greatest joy, and she cherished every moment spent with her seven grandchildren—Steven, Eric, Katelynn, Cory, Ryan, Kelsey, and Alexander-and her great-grandchildren, Moriah, Jason, Charlie, Jemma, Carly, Leah, Solace Boon, Winston, Lincoln, and Ivy. 

Proudly born in Plummers Landing, Kentucky, Jean was the oldest of nine siblings. At a young age, she moved to Dayton to pursue her education at Miami Jacobs Career Center. She later worked as a supervisor at Ohio Bell Telephone Company before meeting and marrying Gene, her devoted husband of 60 years. They eventually settled in Centerville, where she spent over 15 years as an activity director at a care facility, bringing joy and enrichment to countless residents. Jean loved traveling, gardening, camping, and planning family gatherings at her home, where she delighted in preparing the menu. She was a marvelous cook! Jean had a strong faith in Christ. When she could no longer attend church, she remained devoted, making time to watch televised services. Her life was marked by unwavering kindness, a deep love for family, and a steadfast dedication to helping others. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, compassion, and resilience, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. 

A celebration of Jean's life will be held on Friday, May 23, 2025 from 4 pm to 6 pm at Newcomer Centerville Chapel (820 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd., Dayton, OH 45459), with funeral service beginning at 6 pm. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at 11 am at Charter Oak Cemetery in Aberdeen, OH, where she will be laid to rest.