NEVA SUE EMRICK

Neva Sue Emrick, 84, of Quincy, died October 24, 2017, at Blessing Hospital as her 8-year, bravely-fought battle with cancer ended. She journeyed to heaven peacefully in her sleep.

Neva Sue was born November 23, 1932 in rural Lewistown, Mo., a daughter of Edward “Otho” and Ruth Loraine Downs Geisendorfer. She graduated from Lewistown High School in 1950 and later from Gem City College. Neva Sue met her true love, Harry D. Emrick, in Quincy, and on November 30, 1952, they were married in Monticello, Mo. He survives.

During the early 1950’s, Neva Sue worked in the insurance industry, she and Harry operated an A&W restaurant in Hamilton, IL. As Harry went through school, she helped him by typing papers, providing emotional support, and taking care of the house and family. They later settled with their young family in Jacksonville, IL. Neva Sue was a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker and enjoyed being involved in many school and community organizations. She was a faithful member of Grace United Methodist Church, member of the Jacksonville public school parent organizations, dedicated volunteer at Passavant Memorial Hospital, volunteer for the Girl Scouts of America, active member in the Junior Women’s Club, and member of the Jacksonville Art Association. In the late 1970’s, Neva Sue and her family relocated back to her childhood community of Lewistown, MO, where she enjoyed lifelong friendships, her large extended family, and serving her community while sharing in the final years of her parents’ lives. She continued to fulfill her passion for her community as a devoted member of Vermont Street United Methodist Church, active volunteer with the Lewis County Fair, member of We Moderns GFWC, and member of the Quincy, IL chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). In 2000, Neva Sue’s lifelong dream to reside along the beautiful tree-lined Maine Street of Quincy, IL became a reality. She continued her volunteerism in Quincy at Blessing Hospital, and that same friendliness carried over into many aspects of her life as she and Harry developed countless friendships through the Hy-Vee gang. Inspired by her new community, Neva Sue became an accomplished artist with paintings displayed at Blessing Hospital and John Wood Community College. Her proudest works are the portraits of her beloved Harry, children, grandchildren, and pets.

Neva Sue maintained a full and bountiful life, and treasured her journey of friendship and marriage. The joy of family pets and love shared was most treasured by Neva Sue. She never failed to share a kiss on the cheek or a warm hug. Neva Sue spent her final hours enjoying sharp conversation with the joy of being surrounded by friends and loved ones.

In addition to her husband, survivors include four dearly loved children: Bradley Dale (Rodney Briggs) Emrick of Louisville, CO; Rebecca Sue (Susan Chlystek) Cramer of Littleton, CO; Todd Lynn (Tammy) Emrick of Taylor, MO; and Blaine Ray Emrick of Quincy, IL; seven beautiful and beloved grandchildren: Alyssa Marie (Gordon Smeltser) Emrick, Maitlan Ethan (fiance Christina Aardema) Cramer, April Diann Albert, Spencer Raymond Emrick, Hunter Blaine Emrick, Conner Louis Emrick, and Alexis Nicole Albert; a brother, Leonard (Francie) Geisendorfer of Ewing, Mo; a sister, Mary Ruth (Larry) McConnell of Lewistown, Mo; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Neva Sue was preceded in death by her parents; a granddaughter, Megan Elizabeth Cramer; two infant siblings: Vera and Edward Jr. four brothers: Edward, Emery, Kenny, and John Geisendorfer; a nephew, Timothy McConnell; a niece, Lisa Geisendorfer; and a great niece, Courtney Geisendorfer.

Services were held October 28, 2017 at Hansen-Spear Funeral Home, with Rev. Patty Johansen officiating. Visitation was held Oct. 27.

Burial was in Little Mountain Cemetery in Monticello, MO

Memorials: Blessing Cancer Center or Vermont Street United Methodist Church.

www.hansenspear.com

Hansen-Spear Funeral Directors were in charge of the arrangements.