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Emma Rhodes Gresham

1925 - 2018

Emma Rhodes Gresham obituary, 1925-2018, Keysville, GA

BORN

1925

DIED

2018

FUNERAL HOME

Williams Funeral Home, Inc - Hephzibah

2945 Old Tobacco Road

Hephzibah, Georgia

Emma Gresham Obituary

Mayor Emma Rhodes Gresham, 92, entered into rest on Friday, March 2, 2018. She was the second Black woman to be elected mayor in Georgia and led the reactivation of Keysville, GA - "a place that time had forgotten" in 1985. During her tenure of 20 years, Mayor Gresham provided leadership to secure federal, state, and county funding for infrastructure, buildings, and community services. In May 2014, a portion of State Route 88 which runs through the City of Keysville and Burke County, was officially named the Mayor Emma Gresham Highway. She received hundreds of awards for her volunteer public service and servanthood from local, state, and national organizations. Mayor Gresham was also a veteran educator in the Augusta Richmond County, GA School system and a third-generation member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. She and her late husband, Quinten G. Gresham, were the parents of five children: the Rev. Dr. Quinten (Carolyn) Gresham Jr. , the Rev. Ida LaVerne (Charles) Comer, the Rev. Lola Scott (Gresham) Russell, Harold (Charmaine) Gresham, Sr. and Dr. Kay Gresham. She also leaves 14 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren, and more than 100 nieces, nephews, cousins, a special daughter State Representative Gloria (Wayne) Frazier, and a city whose residents were always near her heart. Her celebration of life services will begin on Friday, March 9, 2018 at Bethel AME Church, with a visitation from 6 to 8 p.m. At this service there will be a public viewing and an opportunity to share memories and tributes. The official service will be held on Saturday, March 10, 2018 at 11 a.m. at Paine College's Gilbert-Lambuth Memorial Chapel. Following the services in Augusta, her final parade through Keysville will take place and she will lie in state at Mt. Tabor AME Church from 3 to 4 p.m. before interment in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to the Divas of Destiny of the CSRA, Inc., 3510 Hilltop Drive, Augusta, GA 30906.

Williams Funeral Home, 2945 Old Tobacco Road, Hephzibah, GA

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Augusta Chronicle on Mar. 7, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Emma Gresham

Not sure what to say?





Charles Varner Jr

November 8, 2019

My heart is heavy to learn that my former colleague and church member has gone to her reward. I came to know Emma Gresham upon her arrival in Talladega, Alabama in 1961. She immediately joined fellowship with the Jacob's Chapel CME Church. Emma was a dedicated church worker at Jacob's Chapel as a choir member, missionary, youth leader, pastor's aid worker and many other volunteer positions. She was especially good at working with children, being a school teacher by profession. I enjoyed working with her and experiencing the dynamic motivator that she was. She was blessed in her life and we were blessed to share that life with her.

Alexis Russell-Beasley

July 27, 2018

My Gramma, My Shero, My cooking partner, My prayer warrior, My favorite comedian. The love I have for the AME church came from you. My desire to ALWAYS be around family, came from you.
You watched me come into this world and I watched you as you left this world. There is no love like the love you have given me. One day I'll be a grandmother and I hope to make you so very proud. The influence that you've had on multiple generations has been shown through the fruit of your labor. The hours you spent sacrificing for others while you went without pay never went unnoticed. I honor you as your daughter's daughter but I honor you more because of your unconditional love for me. God of our weary years, God of our silent tears. Thou who has brought us thus far on the way. Thou who has brought us thus far on the way. Thou who has by thy might, led us into the light . keep us forever in your path, we Pray.

Keep praying for your children's children children. Give Grandaddy a kiss for me.

I love you a bushel and a peck.

Patricia Barbee

April 13, 2018

"Sister Emma" to me, found a place in my heart when we Glenmary Co-Missioners began our work in Keysville in 1990.
From what I just learned "Sister Emma" died a day or so after our last chat. She was still working for her Community. There was the Library project at Boggs Academy. There was our plans for October's "Come Back to Keysville" days.
Her work will live for generations to come through all who vote, read, write, study, and participate in civic events, plus in Keysville and surrounding communities.
"Earth's loss is Heaven's gain."

Linda Beder

March 27, 2018

My deepest sympathy to the Gresham/Rhodes family and to all who knew & loved Emma. My husband & I met her when books were needed for the Keysville Library & we remained friends. I was, and remain, in awe of all she accomplished,her spirit, her love & caring.
She will be remembered always.

Kedrick Hartfield

March 27, 2018

I attended Levi White Elementary School from 1962-1969. Mrs. Gresham was a caring person, my brother's second grade teacher and a wonderful example of what an grade school instructor should be.

Leroy Smith

March 12, 2018

As a young boy in the A.M.E. Church it was Ms. Emma Gresham who taught us leadership. She single handedly rebuilt a city. I am sorry to learn late of her passing but will always cherish her constant reminder that there is no meaning to the word "can't" when there is a goal. Thank you for sharing her with us and above all Thank God for Her Life.(Previously Athens, Ga.)

Denorah Crawford

March 11, 2018

Praise God for a beautiful life .well loved and well lived. To God Be the Glory..our family is praying with you.
The Crawford family

March 10, 2018

Thank you Lord for Ms. Emma Gresham, May God continue to bless and keep you family strong and trusting the Lord always. Look upon the hill from which cometh your help. Love each other unconditionally family and may God Bless you always and forever. You have our condolences, love care and support.

Michelle Simons and Family
Spring Hill Missionary Baptist Church, Hephzibah, Ga

Prisonyz Kellam

March 9, 2018

Condolences be blessed in Jesus name

Sharon Cody

March 9, 2018

Father thank you for the life of Sister Emma Greshman. Thank you Father for the time that you gave Sister Gresham on earth & for the impact that she had on so many lives. Now Father I ask of you to console the Greshman Family at this time. For you Father know their hearts & share their sorrows.Give them peace in the midst of their tears.Dear Lord comfort & embrace them into your precious arms of love & support because you are their stronghold.This prayer I pray for the Gresham Family in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen

Bethel AME Church, Norwood GA.
Member, Sister Sharon Cody

Myriam B. Van Buren

March 9, 2018

I was priveleged to have worked with Mayor Gresham. She was an excellent educator of course, but she and I would visit in her classroom just to connect spiritually. Those are my fondest memories of her, and I thank GOD for all that she was able to accomplished as HIS servant. I pray for the repose of Mayor Gresham' soul in the NAME of JESUS CHRIST, and extend heartfelt condolences to her family, Church family, friends, and community at large. ---Myriam B.( Ron) Van Buren

monica smith

March 9, 2018

March 09, 2018
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by God,and the love and support of family and friends.

March 9, 2018

To the Gresham Family wishing you heartfelt condolences during your ours of bereavement. I remember Mrs. Gresham being our YPD director in the Augusta conference. Always about our youth. She will be greatly missed.

Roxie Sims-Williams,
Wrens Chapel AME Church

Janet Langham-Bishop

March 9, 2018

A hero, mother, wife, mentor, teacher, role model, daughter, aunt and a woman of god who will never be forgotten. RIP, the love shared is of mutual affection.

Rev. Queen Yancy

March 9, 2018

On behalf of the ministerial staff and members of Saint Mark AME Church, Atlanta Georgia. We offer our condolences during this bereavement point in life. We thank God for such as a time and Legacy like this... to witness such tenacity and strength Mayor Emma Gresham portrayed. May our prayers reach the family and friend's heart and know that earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal!!!

Rev. Queen Yancy
Associate Minister, St Mark AME Church, Atlanta Georgia

Rev. James Banks

March 9, 2018

My sincere condolences to the Gresham family. I have very fond memories of Mrs. Gresham during my days as a youth in the YPD of the A.M.E. Church. She truly exemplifies a life well lived and well done.

March 8, 2018

Mrs. Gresham and I worked together at Levi White Elementary School in Augusta. I was the first white teacher there, as it was in the time of integrating the school in Richmond County. She became my best friend. I called her Emma Lou. Emma Lou was the best teacher and the best person I have ever known. I cannot tell you how she took me under her beautiful wings to make me feel welcomed to the school. I am so glad to lived long enough to touch others and make Keysville the best it could be. I will always remember her and also will miss her mentorship, not just for teachers, but also her love of absolute goodness in her heart for all the citizens of Keysville.

earnest&willie mae williams

March 8, 2018

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Waltena Robinson

March 8, 2018

Absolutely Stunning lady may rest in peace in our lord and savior arms Jesus Christ. Mrs. Gresham mom has be waiting on you tell her about all of us love you waltena Robinson my mother best friend

Ari Brown-Gosa

March 8, 2018

Your impacting legacy will live forever!!! I'll never forget your warm hugs....

Anne Lott Williams

March 8, 2018

You've ascended to heaven! Tell Mother, Roberta, Miriam and Linda that I'm glad that they're watching over me. Angels rest in Heaven❤❤

Anne Lott Williams

March 8, 2018

No more pain and suffering! You've gone home. Tell mother that her baby said hello. You have gone to heaven to be with God and family. Love you aunt Emma❤

Tracy Leedorsey

March 8, 2018

I want to offer my condolences to you and the entire family. You all are always in my thoughts and prayers. Words fall short but God is faithful. Aunt Emma was a diamond in the rough that can never be replaced. She will always be remembered and greatly missed.
Love you all
Tracy

LINDSEY LAMAR RHODES

March 8, 2018

MY DEEPEST SYMPHATY TO GRESHAM FAMILY
MAY GOD COMFORT YOU IN YOUR TIME OF SORROW ABSENT OF THE BODY IS PRESENT WITH THE LORD OUR GOD

Albert Abrams

March 8, 2018

My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. Ms. Gresham was an outstanding servant leader.

Mark Oliphant

March 8, 2018

Sending love, prayers,positive thoughts to the entire Gresham/Rhodes family, Keysville community, Boggs Academy family and all who like me knew and loved her. God bless.

Connie Bogan

March 8, 2018

Condolences to the bereaved family,
May God put Mrs. Gresham, in a special place where she'll be watching over us the people who loved and cherished her. I extend my deepest sympathies to you and your family..

lisa JOHNSON

March 8, 2018

sending loving prayers and sympathy to the Gresham family. Kay my prayers are with you!

Fabian Bethea

March 8, 2018

I did not know you, but to read your life story your fight for equality. Your rise to become Mayor & the personal stories / pictures of homage from your grand daughter /my friend JOI Comer - I feel HONORED & BLESSED to know you were for your people . AMAZING LIFE !!! Job well done RIP Mayor Emma Rhodes Gresham

Judge Emanuel Larkin, Jr.

March 7, 2018

WITH HEARTFELT SYMPATHY
I will always remember the 'Servant of the People' giving of herself and love to all she encountered. May the favor of God be upon your family in the days to come.

Earnest Sims

March 7, 2018

Marvelous. Lovable. Inspirational. These are only a few of many words we could say about Mother Gresham. Our condolences and prayers for the family. We love you.

Loretta Harden

March 7, 2018

Thank you, Mrs. Greshman,for being such a strong mentor to my daughter . RIP

Antoinette Comer

March 7, 2018

I will miss you and your beautiful smile and personality. God has another Angel.

Cyntease Powell

March 7, 2018

Mayor Gresham, took me under her wing and allowed me to experience things that I would not have otherwise. I was leader of almost every after school program in Keysville, once I hit my teenage years. Heck, being an assistant for the mayor was my first paying job. She was the reason I went into Political Science to pursue a law degree. The impact that she has had on my life is undeniable and unforgettable. I will miss her and I regret not seeing her more often after returning home. Rest well, Mayor!

Dianne Rhodes-Payne

March 7, 2018

You will ALWAYS be Special to me. Love you Cuz.
Your Cousin, Dianne Rhodes-Payne.

Zelda Jones

March 7, 2018

My, my Mrs. Emma,
A lady with a heart of "Gold" you cared so much for your husband Quentin is how I met you at Georgia War Veteran's Nursing Home. You cared so much for your family n community, I admired you so much when I met you to see the energy, motivation and the love you had for all. You are such an elegant lady n I will truly miss you. Get your heavenly rest, Quentin has been waiting for you.
Thank you for being a POSITIVE role model.

Vernell West-Dent

March 7, 2018

Mayor Gresham was a blessing to all of us! She spoke at my mother as well as my step-father's funeral. Her light shown where ever she would go. I thank her children for sharing her with us and giving us the opportunity to be witness to her wisdom. We loved her but God loves her best.

Inez #45

March 7, 2018

My deepest condolences for your loss,
May you find courage to overcome this!

Vernell Armstrong

March 7, 2018

The angels are always near to those who are grieving, to whisper to them that their loved ones are safe in the hand of God.

Schunrear Atkins

March 7, 2018

My Prayers are With The Family & Everyone Who She Touched. I Met Her at The Essence Awards when She Received Her Award & I was Truly Grateful to have Met This Amazing Woman. Rest in Peace & Love. God Has "You" Now

Rev. Mike Jones

March 7, 2018

Gresham Family,
Our prayers are with the entire family. May The work I Done Speak For Me. His blessing to the entire family and community.

Hassie Alexander

March 7, 2018

May God bless you during these hour of sorrow, may you continually remember the joy,laughter,talks and smiles that Mrs.Gresham would give all of us. Peace Love and Joy!

Sabrenia Smallwood Moore

March 6, 2018

Merciful God thank you for blessed life of Mother Emma Rhodes Gresham. I ask in the Name of Jesus Christ that you comfort her family during this very grievous time. May your Comforter embrace them and guide them in the days to come. May her love forever hover around them in memory, scent, and song. Give them the support, care and love they will need to continue without her physical presence. And remind them they carry her love within them daily.
In Jesus Name. Amen.

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Funeral services provided by:

Williams Funeral Home, Inc - Hephzibah

2945 Old Tobacco Road, Hephzibah, GA 30815

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