Emily Williamson Haizlip

Emily (Yandell) Williamson Haizlip was born on March 19, 1925, in Memphis, TN, and died peacefully at home on July 29, 2025. She was preceded in death by her husband Henry Harden Haizlip Jr., her parents Jean Hunter and Dr. Wilson Williamson and her sisters Jean Williamson Sights and Flora Williamson Jones. She is survived by her children Henry Haizlip III, Wilson Haizlip (Suzanne), Jean Hunter Oppenheimer and Selden 'Reb' Haizlip (Mary), and her grandchildren Haiz Oppenheimer (Maggie) and Emily Oppenheimer.
She was a graduate of the Lausanne School, St. Mary's College in Raleigh, NC, and Rhodes College of Memphis.
Emily was happiest being with family and friends and will be remembered for her remarkable grace, charm, intelligence and warmth. She was devout in her faith and affirmed the presence of God in the beauty and wonder of the natural world, whether in her native plant garden, trekking the western mountains, or fly-fishing remote streams. She had a competitive spirit, with a mean tennis game, as well as a zest for international travel. A lifelong learner, she obtained a mid-life degree in library sciences and volunteered at the Memphis University School library for several years.
She devoted enormous time and energy to causes near to her heart. She served on the vestry at St. John's Episcopal Church, and civic organizations including the boards of The Episcopal Church Women, the Memphis Academy of Arts, Bridges, the MIFA Development Board, The Junior League of Memphis, the Memphis Garden Club and the Memphis Women's Club. She was a member of Idlewild Presbyterian Church, the Memphis Country Club and the Memphis Hunt and Polo Club.
To honor Emily's memory, the family invites you to give to any charity that holds meaning for you. Your kindness and generosity, in any form, are deeply appreciated.
A memorial service will be held in early Fall following a private burial in Elmwood Cemetery.