Mrs. Emma Eaton Smith was born in Norfolk, Virginia to the late Reverend Plummer Peter and Katie Louise Eaton on April 27, 1928. She was married to the late Emmett Ellsworth Smith, Sr. She departed this life May 22, 2018 surrounded by her loved ones. She was predeceased by her parents, husband, daughter-in-law; as well as her five sisters and three brothers.
Emma in her early years began her education in Norfolk Public Schools. Upon graduation she attended The Division of Norfolk State College and continued at Virginia State University; where she graduated and earned her Bachelor of Science in Education.
Emma started her Christian walk at Queen Street Baptist Church and continued to follow Christ at National Baptist Church. Mrs. Smith had a beautiful singing voice. She lead her father’s choir and sang many solos. Emma continued to sing as she began her early career as a singer at the USO during WWII. Emma was blessed with an angelic voice.
Emma taught for over thirty years in Norfolk Public School System. She was more than a teacher to many; she was a teacher, a second mother and a nurturer to all. She was adored by many of her students. Emma taught at Oakwood Elementary, Rosemont Middle School and then retired from Lake Taylor Middle as the head of the English Department.
Emma leaves to cherish memories a daughter, Barbara S. Stevens; a son, Emmett E. Smith, Jr.; three grandchildren, Akena, Jenell and Kenton; five great grandchildren, Jared, Jaimal, EmaRee, Chance and Justice and a host of other relatives and friends.

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