Anna Emily

Anna Rhe Emily, affectionately known by her family and friends as “Ms. Ann,” went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at the age of 90. Ms. Ann was born on May 7, 1935, in Oklahoma, the daughter of Joseph Allen Bray and Ora Della Mae (Smith) Bray.

Ms. Ann lived a full and gracious life rooted in faith, family, and love for others. She was known for her gentle spirit, warm heart, and selfless devotion to those around her. Whether offering a comforting word or sharing her wisdom and laughter, Ms. Ann made everyone feel welcome and loved. Her unwavering faith in the Lord guided her life and was an inspiration to all who knew her. She was a member of Springtown Baptist Church for many years. Ms. Ann was a God fearing woman and continuously prayed for her family and friends.

Ms. Ann married the love of her life, Joseph Emily, on November 20, 1951, in St. Louis, Missouri. Together they built a beautiful family. Through the years, Ms. Ann worked hard to ensure her family was always cared for. While living in St. Louis, she was employed at International Shoe. After returning home to Potosi, she worked for Brown Shoe and later finished her career with Walmart, where she faithfully served for approximately 27 years before retiring. During her time at Walmart, Ms. Ann developed many lasting friendships with both co-workers and customers, who came to know her for her kindness, dedication, and welcoming smile.

Ms. Ann loved her family deeply—especially her grand-babies—and was so proud of each of their accomplishments. She was an exceptional cook who delighted in preparing meals for her loved ones and hosting family gatherings. Some of her most popular dishes included her famous dressing, homemade tacos, chili, cornbread, Mississippi mud-cake, and chocolate pudding cake. Her kitchen was truly the heart of her home, where laughter, love, and good food were always shared.

Ms. Ann is survived by three children: Ronald Emily (Eyvonne), Kimmerly (Lori) Hensley, and Melinda Marler (Shawn); eight grandchildren: Melissa Ward, Tracey Emily, Jesse Cooley (Jamie), Anna Guevara, Jerad Marler (Whitney), Brittany Hensley, RJ Emily, and Emily Middleton (Jacob); eleven great-grandchildren: Chelsea, Hayley, Devon (Hallie), Jaden, Riley, Olivia, Sydney, Amelia, Liam, Landon, and Fallon; and two great-great-grandchildren: Cainan and Amaya. She is also survived by her son-in-law, Terry Breier; brothers-in-law, Ted Emily and Wendell Emily; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Ora Bray; her beloved husband, Joseph Emily; daughter, JoAnn Breier; grandson, Zach Ward; two brothers, Eugene Emily and Raymond Emily; and her sister, Roszine LePage.

Visitation will be held Thursday evening, November 13, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at DeClue Funeral Home. Visitation will resume on Friday, November 14th, from 9:00 to 11:00 AM. A Funeral Service to honor Ms. Ann will follow beginning at 11:00 AM in the DeClue Memorial Chapel. Interment and final prayers will be held at Sunset Hill Cemetery. Funeral arrangements have been respectfully entrusted to the care and direction of DeClue Funeral Home.

Though Ms. Ann will be deeply missed, her legacy of love, faith, and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those she leaves behind. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is rejoicing in Heaven, reunited with loved ones, and resting in the eternal peace of her Savior.