Emma Stokes Dillard , a welcoming, loving, and generous soul, peacefully entered eternal life on Friday, October 4, 2024, at the age of 97. Born in Nashville, North Carolina, on March 1, 1927, she was the daughter of the late Robert Stokes and the late Georgianna Cooper Stokes. After losing her mother at just six months old, Emma was lovingly raised in Newport News, Virginia, by her devoted Aunt Sarah Langley.

Emma's unwavering faith and dedication to Christ began early in life.  As a woman of deep spirituality, she found immense joy and purpose in her relationship with the Lord.  She was a cherished member of First Baptist Church East End (FBCEE) in Newport News, Virginia, where she proudly served as the church clerk and an active missionary, bringing others to Christ.

Emma married the late Charlie Simmons, and from their union, three children were born: Robert Simmons (Amanda Whitaker) of Newport News, Carol Simmons of Newport News, and the late Parthenia Jones (Norfleet Powell Jones) of Hampton.  She is survived by her beloved grandchildren, Robecca Whitaker, Norfleet Jerrod Jones, and Jatauné Jones, along with her great-grandson, Jayden Jones.

After graduating from Huntington High School, Emma remained committed to her education, catching the ferry from Hampton to Norfolk to attend Norfolk State College.  Emma pursued a career in accounting, working at both Fort Eustis and Fort Monroe, earning recognition from the Department of the Army for exceptional performance for her outstanding contribution to the mission of the deputy chief of staff for resource management.  She continued in her role until she retired.  Later, she married William Dillard and relocated to Randallstown, Maryland.  There, her faith remained steadfast as she became an active member of New Antioch Baptist Church.  She was deeply committed to ministry, spiritual growth, and bringing others closer to the Lord.  Upon returning to Newport News, Emma rejoined First Baptist Church East End as an active and devoted member.

In addition to her passion for faith, Emma had a flair for fashion, often sewing her own beautiful designs and always presenting herself with grace and style.  She also enjoyed selling Mary Kay products, sharing her love of beauty, and helping others to shine with confidence.  Emma deeply loved her family, cherished spending her free time with friends, and enjoyed volunteering at a neighboring school.  She took great joy in teaching young children how to read, write, count, and tie their shoes.

Emma also enjoyed going for scenic rides, solving challenging math problems, keeping up with current events, and participating in trivia.  Her lifelong love of learning was evident, and she delighted in learning new math concepts and interesting facts from her granddaughter, Robecca.

Emma Stokes Dillard's faith and love for her community, family, and friends will remain a guiding light to all who knew her.  She will be remembered for her kindness and warmth as well as the positive impact she had on everyone she met.  A host of family and friends who were touched by her generous spirit will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

A Celebration of Life service will be held 11:00 a.m. Monday, October 14, 2024 at First Baptist Church East End in Newport News, VA.  Interment will be in Hampton Memorial Gardens.  There will be NO public viewing.