Emma Grace Van Winkle

Emma was born on December 5, 1927, in Columbus, Ohio, the youngest of three siblings. She attended Ohio State University, where she met James Van Winkle (Jim), whom she married In 1950.

Together, they built a life for their six children grounded in faith, hard work, and endurance. Emma took great pride in her family and her home, caring for them with diligence and thoughtful attention.

Her devotion and care for her home even became part of a fond family saying when visiting— “Don’t step on the white part of the carpet.”

In her free time, Emma volunteered at the Shearer Hills Baptist Church library, where she found joy in serving others and her community. When she wasn’t at the library, she could often be found at the family farm. Emma and Jim spent many years tending and improving the farm, making it a special and memorable place for their grandchildren.

During the summers, Emma took joy in caring for her grandchildren when they visited. That time was spent building lasting memories and teaching them to cook, craft, grow in their faith, and understand the importance of good manners and helping with chores. She spent her final years at The Towers of Parklane, where she was well known and will be missed by her friends and the staff who cared for her there.

Emma is survived by her five remaining children, her twelve grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren. She is now at peace, reunited in heaven with her husband, Jim, her youngest son, and other beloved family members and friends.

Emma will be remembered for her strong will, kindness, and strength. Her final days were filled with thoughts of her family.