Emma Louise Nelson

            Mrs. Emma Louise (Herbert) Nelson, 82, of Youngstown, transitioned to eternal peace on Thursday, February 20, 2025 in the comfort of her home surrounded by her loving family.

            Emma, affectionately known as “Grammie”, was born March 5, 1942 in Greenville, Alabama, a daughter of Willie G. and Myra B. Smith Herbert, and was the oldest of three daughters.  In September 1955 along with her family, she relocated from Greenville, Alabama to Youngstown, Ohio.  She was a 1960 graduate of East High School.  On July 29, 1967, she married Heril Nelson and from this union a daughter was born.  Emma was a hard worker.  Early on she worked at Towel Supply, moved on to work at Klivan Brothers Jewelry in downtown Youngstown as a sales Clerk.  After the closing of Klivan Brothers she started her career at American Paper/Postal Church Products where she created and printed church envelopes and worked for over 30 years, retiring September 21, 2012.

            Emma was a member of the Mt. Zion Baptist Church, where she served on the No. II Usher Board and Altar Guild.  She loved the Lord, her family and church family.  She was the life of the party, the backup witness and Amen corner for the pastor.  She loved music, especially the 70’s soul and gospel.  She enjoyed playing social cards and bingo.  She spoke her mind and you didn’t have to question where you stood with her.

            She leaves to carry on spreading her love and legacy, her daughter Cheryl L. (David A.) Smith; grandchildren, Dorian A., Donivan D. and Cheylynn D. Smith; sisters, Eva M. Cathey and Gladys Herbert; in-laws, Eddie (Marnette) Nelson, Alvin Nelson, Sherry Barnes; life-long friend and care companion, Allie Sue Jackson; niece, Michelle Young; goddaughter, Sonya Gamble; grandson from another mother, Christopher T. Anderson; neighbor daughter, Michelle E. Brown; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbors and friends.

            Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Deacon Heril Nelson; and brothers and sisters-in-law.

            Visitation will be Saturday, March 1, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. at the Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 827 Wilson Ave., Youngstown.  A celebration of life service will follow at 10:00 a.m.

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