Emma Jean Ely, 91, of Monroe City, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at the Monroe City Manor.
 Born on June 19, 1933, to William Samuel Hinch and Lola E. Nixon, Emma grew up in the Monroe City area. She attended Center High School and married Albert Lee Ely on March 24, 1951. Together, they raised a family and built a life full of love and devotion. Emma worked as a dispatcher for Centel GTE for 22 years, earning a reputation for her dedication and punctuality, never missing a day of work.
 A lifelong member of the New Oakland Baptist Church, Emma was a woman of strong faith who enjoyed teaching Sunday school. She loved music, dancing, and playing cards, always finding joy in spending time with loved ones. Emma had a passion for the outdoors, especially crappie fishing and mush­room hunting. She was also involved in the Monroe City Manor Auxiliary and Board and was an active participant on a Palmyra, Missouri, bowling team. Emma was a certified reflexologist, further reflecting her nurturing nature.
 She is survived by her daughters Diane Ely (Craig Brown) of Monroe City, Reta Schachtsiek (Alan) of Palmyra, Missouri, Jeanne Buckman (Scott) of Excel­sior Springs, Missouri, and Vicky Holland (Robbie) of Monroe City. She is also survived by her sister, Grace Askeland of Monroe City; brother-in-law, Gary Ely of Florida; sister-in-law, Martha Ely of New London; and ten grandchildren: Kelly Stroud (Calvin) of Hannibal, Amy Harris (Don) of North Carolina, Carrie Johnson (John) of Monroe City, Brad Whiston of Barry, Jeff Buckman (Jaime) of O’Fallon, Jared Buckman (Ra­chel) of Liberty, Curt Schachtsiek of Monroe City, Todd Schachtsick (Megan) of Carrollton, Nick Schachtsiek (Kati) of Petersburg, Illinois, and 23 great-grandchildren.
 Emma was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, Albert, and her four sisters and six brothers.
 A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am at Garner Funeral Home, with funeral services beginning at 11:00 am, officiated by Rev. Glenn Hammond.
 In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Monroe City Manor Auxiliary or LaCroix Community Hospice Care.
 Emma’s loving spirit, faith, and dedication to her family and community will be deeply missed by all who knew her.