Emma Garard

Emma Rene Garard, 85, of Waycross, Georgia, passed away peacefully on August 13th, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.
Born on February 11, 1940, in Waycross, she was the beloved daughter of Julia Mae (Harmon) and James Hillie Johnson. Emma was a proud graduate of Center High School, where she was a stand-out athlete and exceptional basketball player, earning the admiration of her classmates and community. She was known as a dedicated student and a proud Tiger.
Emma devoted 45 years of her life to serving others through her work at Satilla Regional Hospital, retiring with a legacy of compassion and commitment. Beyond her professional life, she was deeply rooted in her faith and community. As a devoted member of Shiloh Baptist Church, she served faithfully for decades-holding positions such as President of the Usher Ministry, President of the Bible Class, Youth Director, and offering her help wherever else she was needed. She was lovingly known for gathering "all the little ones" and ensuring they attended Sunday school and church.
Emma was also an active member of the City Ushers' Ministry, where she served with dedication and grace, holding the offices of Treasurer and Chaplain in addition to her role on the City-Wide Usher Board. Through these ministries, she joyfully greeted and supported congregations across the community.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Julia Mae and James; her brothers, James and Theodore; and her sister, Louvenia Graham. She leaves to cherish her memory her sister, Martha A. McPhaul of Leesville, Louisiana; a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and many great- and great-great-nieces and nephews, along with countless friends and neighbors who were blessed to know her.
The family extends a special thanks to Ms. Jo's Personal Home Care for their compassionate service and support, a special thank you to Ms. Rosemary Boyd for her devoted care and kindness, a special thank you to Satilla Hospice House for their comfort and dedication during Emma's final days, and a special thank you to her neighbors, the Lockey family, for their care and friendship over the years.
Emma's life was one of service, faith, and love-a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Services to celebrate her life are scheduled for Friday, August 22, 2025, at 11:00 am at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church. A public viewing will be held on Thursday, from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church.