Neal "Ed" Emery

Ed was born in California on April 21, 1947 to Annie Laurie Johnson and Neal Edward Emery, Sr. Growing up in a military family, soon after Ed’s birth, they moved back to their hometown, Hampton, VA. At the age of five, his father was transferred to Germany where they lived for two years. As an adult, Ed had a passion for history and loved to share his stories about his time in Germany where he played in the bombed-out buildings from World War II. His family lived on the main floor of a German home while the German family lived in the basement. There were no base housing units available at that time.

Still a young boy, Ed and his family moved back to Hampton, VA where he later graduated from Hampton High School. After graduation, he served in the U.S. Army Reserve for two years. He then attended Florida Atlantic College and Old Dominion University, graduating as a Certified Public Accountant. He went on to create a successful accounting firm, Emery CPA Tax & Accounting, for over 30 years in Chesapeake, VA, and finally in Williamsburg for the past 12 years.

Ed and his first wife, Lila Elizabeth "Beth" Chisman, raised three beautiful daughters in Chesapeake, VA. He is survived by his daughters, Amy Emery Iliffe, Kimberly Emery, Sarah Emery and her partner, Mary Strong; his two grandchildren, Benjamin and Madelyn; and his sister, Joyce Emery Brooks and her husband Charlie Brooks. Ed gained additional children and grandchildren when he married his wife Carol in 2010; Jennifer Sholi, Robert Royds, Emily Kincaid and grandchildren, Adam, Mallick, Kiya and Summer. Family was the focus and love of Ed’s life.

Ed and Carol were so blessed to have had 14 years together. They were able to travel (after tax season of course!) and share many adventures together. They shared not only a love for each other but also of their faith in the Lord. Ed served as treasurer at his church and always looked for ways to show the love of God to others. He was a kind and loving man and will be so missed.

There will be a Celebration of Life service on June 30, 2024, at 2PM at Williamsburg Community Chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Autism Speaks, act.autismspeaks.org or Samaritan’s Purse, samaritanspurse.org. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.NelsenWilliamsburg.com.