Emma Thames

Emma Jean Collins Thames age 77, passed away February 27, 2026. She was born on March 8, 1948, in Gibson Station, Lee County, VA, to her parents Dollie June Corbin and R B Collins. She attended Middlesboro High School in Middlesboro, KY. She was a great nurse throughout her career.

She was a caregiver in every sense of the word, not just to her patients but to our family and everyone she met. She was saved at a young age at Southside Baptist Church in Middlesboro, KY. She was a member of Rock Springs Church in Macon, GA. She had lived with her daughter Tracy (her loving caregiver) in Macon, GA. The Lord decided that she had fought and suffered long enough and chose to bring his angel home.

She was preceded in death by her mother Dollie June Corbin Surber and brother Johnny Surber, and her daughter Rebecca June Goins.

She is survived by daughters Tracy (Rich) Tarvers, Brenda (Bobby) Nunn, Billie Jean Goodwin, sisters Brenda Snodgrass Burchfield (her best friend and confidant), Brenda Collins Underwood, Ramona Collins (Paul) Croushore, grandchildren: Tommy Lawson, Mathew (Summer) Lawson, Brittany (John) Fixler, Courtney (Josh) Baughcum, Megan (Cody) Wisecarver, Daniel Christian, Michael (Maddie) Goodwin, Makayla (Robert) Dixon and several great grandchildren.

Her girls were her whole world. She loved her grandchildren fiercely and her great grandchildren were the light of her life. She loved her nephews Robbie and Steve Snodgrass, and their family, and aunt Geneva Clay. She had several extended families.

Rest peacefully dear mother, Nana and sister. You'll always be with our family. Your kindness, laughter, and love live on in every memory. It hurts to say goodbye, but we are grateful for every moment.

The family will receive friends Saturday March 7, 2026, at 2:00 P.M. at Coffey Funeral Home Chapel with funeral at 3:00 P.M. A private graveside service at Irish Memorial Gardens, Tazewell, TN will follow.

Gary Donehew officiating.

Pallbearers: Tommy Lawson, Matthew Lawson, Daniel Christian and Michael Goodwin.

Coffey Funeral Home, New Tazewell, TN is serving the family.