Emma May Camby

October 1, 1929- August 27, 2025

Emma Camby, born on October 1, 1929, peacefully passed away on August 27, 2025, at the age of ninety-five. She was the daughter of William H. Brainard Sr. and Minnie E. (Freeman) Brainard. She was a proud graduate of Manchester High School, where she was a member of the Honor Society.

She married the late Lewis G. Camby Sr., and together they raised a family of ten children. She was a dedicated mother, grandmother, and friend who found joy in the little moments. Emma supported her family in countless ways. She treasured spending time with her family, whether it was playing cards, baking her famous desserts, or traveling with friends. Her adventurous spirit took her to many places, and she loved the thrill of a good casino trip.

Over the years, Emma made many contributions to the communities she lived in. She raised her children in Norwich before moving to Green Cove Springs, Florida, where she worked for ten years at the local county courthouse. After her time in Florida, Emma returned to Norwich, where she worked for the City of Norwich in the Vital Records Department and Town Assessor’s office, where she was well-loved by her colleagues and made many lasting friendships. She was a beloved member of a group of friends who affectionately called themselves the “Breakfast Club,” gathering regularly to share meals and go on vacations. Emma’s adventurous spirit, sharp wit and sense of humor were evident in everything she did. She enjoyed many years as a member of the Red Hats Society, hosting numerous events at the American Legion Post 4. She also volunteered at the voting stations during elections.

Emma was preceded in death by her beloved children, Lewis G. Camby Jr., Donald Camby, Raymond Camby, Phillip Camby, and Patricia Camby. She also mourned the loss of her granddaughters, Michelle Cook, Tara Murphy, and Jenae Williams, whose absence she felt greatly.

She is survived by her daughters, Anna (Camby) Seymour, Mary Jo Camby, Sandra (Mike) Lewis, Laura (Camby) Coleman, Jeannette (Camby) Fulwiley, and daughter-in-law Carmen Camby. Emma is also remembered by her siblings: Druscilla “Bobbi” Williams, Roxanne “Rocky” Carlyle, and Arthur “Guy” Brainard, along with a large extended family of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

Emma’s closest friends, Mary Silva, Rosemarie Kalin, Kia, and "Ms. Pearl," were a source of immense joy and companionship throughout her life. She held these friendships dear and cherished the bonds they shared.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her — a woman of strength, and grace. She will be deeply missed, her legacy of laughter, and devotion to family will continue to inspire generations to come.

Visitation will be Wednesday Sept. 10, 2025 from 10-11 am. at the Church and Allen Funeral Home 136 Sachem Street Norwich followed by a Funeral Service at 11am at the funeral home. Burial will be private.

A celebration of life will be held at the Knights of Columbus in Taftville, immediately after service.