Emma E. Gilkey, age 96, of Sullivan passed away Sunday, March 12, 2017 at Life Care Center in Sullivan, MO.
Emma Elizabeth Mehle was born on August 8, 1920 to William and Sarah (Tally) Mehle at Belleville, AR. She was born and raised in Arkansas and on June 3, 1939, was married to R.V. Gilkey in Danville, AR. Emma and R.V. made their home in St. Louis for some fifty years before making their home in the Bourbon and Sullivan area in the 1980’s.
Emma was a strong and wonderful Christian lady. She spent her life raising her family and caring for her two handicapped sons; Bob and Roy and her daughter Mary. Emma also raised her grandchildren; Gina and Ron. She loved to cook, garden, fishing, quilting and sewing in addition to playing her harmonica. She will be lovingly remembered by her family and many friends. And never forgotten by her granddaughter Gina.
Emma is survived by her grandchildren Gina (Rodney) Griffin of Sullivan, Ronald Williams of Rolla; one great- grandson Daniel (Christina) Griffin; six great-great grandchildren Caleb, Faith, Annabeth, Seth, Jacob and Isobel; two sisters: Wanda Haston and Ida Mehle; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Emma was preceded in death by her parents William and Sarah Tally Mehle; her husband R. V. Gilkey; and three children Roy, Robert and Mary Gilkey.
Funeral services were conducted at 11 a.m., Friday, March 17, 2017 at the Eaton Funeral Home, Sullivan with interment in Schmidt Cemetery, Sullivan, MO.
Visitation was from 5-8 p.m. Thursday evening at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan, MO.
All arrangements were under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home.