Emma Lavelle Wilson

STAUNTON, VA Emma Lavelle (Bowers) Wilson, 94, of 34 Wilson Loop, widow of Merlyn Edward Wilson, died Thursday, June 26, 2014, in Augusta Nursing and Rehab Center, Fishersville. She was born November 11, 1919, in Possum Trot, Highland County, VA, daughter of the late Dennis and Mary (Nelson) Bowers of Blue Grass, VA. Emma's parents moved the family to Staunton in 1927. She was married to Eddie Wilson in 1956 and they raised four children. Emma worked at Genesco for 43 years, retiring in 1983. Over the remaining period of her life, Emma cared for her family and home. She will always be remembered for her kindness, spirit, hard work and devotion to family and friends. Emma was a wonderful cook, avid gardener and dedicated animal lover. She was a member of Jerusalem Chapel Church, Lifetime Member of the Moose Lodge, and participated in the YMCA Senior Aqua Fit Class. Emma was preceded in death by first husband, Max Daugherty; second husband, Eddie Wilson; two brothers, Andrew and William Bowers; and two sisters, Marie Argenbright and Fleeta Whitlock. Emma is survived by her four children, Dennis Daugherty and wife, Laura, of Harrisonburg, VA, Denise Nicely and husband, Mark, of Tampa, FL, Doris Robertson of Staunton, VA, Jeff Wilson and wife, Janine, of Detroit, MI; special care givers, Janice Selzer, cousin, Jim Beverage, and June Wilson, sister-in-law; five grandchildren, Dennis Allen Daugherty, Robin Hairfield, Meredith Welcher, Caroline and Rebecca Wilson; Three great-grandchildren, Natalie and Jake Hairfield, and Lee Daugherty; Emma was much-loved and will be deeply missed by both friends and family. The earth was a more beautiful place because of her presence. A funeral service will be conducted at 11:00 a.m., July 1, 2014 in the Henry Funeral Home Chapel by the Pastor Dennis Sites. Burial will follow in Thornrose Cemetery. Active pallbearers will be Jim Beverage, Mark Nicely, Mark Hetzel, Rick Homes, Jake Hairfield and Lee Daugherty. The family will receive friends from 6 until 8 p.m., Monday, June 30, 2014 in the funeral home. Condolences may be sent to Janice Selzer, 3256 Churchville Avenue, Staunton, VA 24401.