Emma B. Perry

Emma B. Perry was born on December 17th, 1930, to Prince Robinson and Rosa Thomas in Gilbert, Louisiana. She was blessed with four sisters, Eleanor, Gladys, Lucy, and Ella, and one brother, Willie, all of whom preceded her in death. From a very young age, Emma loved going to church and admired her mother’s deep love for Jesus and unwavering commitment to the church. Tragically, at just nine years old, Emma lost her mother to an aneurysm. Her early foundation of faith, however, stayed with her throughout her life.

Emma enjoyed school and was an excellent student. Her love of reading began early and remained with her always. She skipped a grade, entering 9th grade after completing the 7th. After finishing 9th grade, she made the selfless decision to leave school in order to work and help raise her younger sister Ella.

In the late1950s, Emma and Moses moved to Omaha, Nebraska to join her sister Ella, beginning a new chapter together. Shortly after arriving, they both found work as they built their lives in their new community. Emma worked as a maid at the historic Paxton Hotel in downtown Omaha, where she was known for her strong work ethic and dedication. On February 8th, 1965, Emma and Moses were united in marriage, continuing the life they had already begun building together in Omaha.

In 1970, Emma embraced one of the greatest joys of her life: motherhood. She left her position at the Paxton Hotel to dedicate herself fully to raising her family as a loving and devoted stay at home mom. During this time, Emma and Moses became faithful members of St. Mark Baptist Church, then located on Lake Street. Emma quickly became active in the church, serving for many years on the Usher Board, faithful in the Mission, and a steady, supportive presence with the children’s choir. Later, she was called to serve as a deaconess and was eventually honored as a Mother of the Church.

Emma had a heart for caring for others, especially children. She simply adored kids, babysitting in her neighborhood and within her family. What began as an expression of her love for children also provided additional income for her household while she devoted herself to raising her own family. She was also a gifted seamstress, able to design dresses, curtains, and just about anything imaginable with a sewing machine. Her sewing was not only a talent she enjoyed, but another way she contributed to her family’s financial well-being.

When she wasn’t caring for others or sewing, Emma could often be found enjoying two of her favorite pastimes, fishing and gardening. She especially loved fishing with her sister Ella and looked forward to spending time outdoors. Each year she lovingly tended a garden and, at harvest time, canned tomatoes, okra, and other vegetables for her family to enjoy. Emma was also an exceptional cook, but if there was one thing she was especially well known for, it was her tea cakes. Family, friends, and neighbors all knew that Emma’s tea cakes were something special. Whenever someone showed her kindness, she often expressed her gratitude in the best way she knew how by baking fresh tea cakes and sharing them.

Emma’s love of reading remained with her throughout her life. Whether it was a good book or a favorite magazine, she found joy in reading and continued to enjoy it into her 90s. She often spent her days reading, enjoying magazines, watching television, and keeping her mind engaged. Her lifelong curiosity and love of learning stayed with her always.

Even after relocating to Los Angeles in January2020, Emma’s heart remained connected to her beloved St. Mark Baptist Church in Omaha. She often spoke of her church family with deep affection. St. Mark was always home to her. Emma’s life was one of unwavering faith, quiet strength, and selfless love for her family, church, and community. Her legacy of kindness, service, and devotion will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

Emma was preceded in death by her beloved husband Moses Perry, her beloved son Prince Robinson Jr., her parents, her siblings, and other cherished family members. She leaves to cherish her memory her children Donald R. Perry, Lisa Perry, and David A. Perry; a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many dear friends whose lives she touched with her love, kindness, and unwavering faith.

VIEWING 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 24, followed by FUNERAL SERVICES at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mark Baptist Church, 3616 Spalding St.

INTERMENT Mount Hope Cemetery.