Jeannie Marie Emily

Jeannie Marie Emily, a cherished member of her community, passed peacefully at her family homestead on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on November 19, 1935, in Richwoods, Missouri, Jeannie was the beloved daughter of Henry and Emma (Daugherty) Fairless.

Jeannie's early life was marked by the strong work ethic she developed while growing up in Richwoods. She graduated from Potosi High School with the class of 1954. Shortly after, she married the love of her life, Reuben Emily, on October 23, 1954. Together, they built a life centered around family, home, and faith.

Throughout her career, Jeannie worked for a brief period with the Brown Shoe Company before embracing her important role as a dedicated homemaker and mother to her two sons, Doug and Kurt. She poured her heart into caring for her family and maintaining their land, creating a loving and supportive environment for her loved ones.

Jeannie had a passion for traveling, often exploring new places alongside Reuben. She was well-known for her vibrant spirit on the dance floor, frequently attending local dances, where her ability to dance brought joy to many. A true collector at heart, Jeannie adorned her home with an assortment of trinkets and took pride in seasonal decorating, ensuring her home was warm and cozy for all occasions. Her love for gardening shined through as she enjoyed planting flowers and tending to the garden with Reuben. A talented cook, Jeannie had a knack for preparing delicious meals that brought her family together for many dinners, reinforcing her belief that time spent with family was of utmost importance.

A devoted member of the Catholic faith, Jeannie fulfilled her spiritual duties by attending Mass whenever possible. One of her greatest joys was sharing the experience of receiving Holy Communion with her family, creating a bond that would last through generations. She was an active parishioner at St. Stephen's Catholic Church in Richwoods, where her faith was a guiding light in her life.

Jeannie also took pride in her community involvement, particularly in her participation with the Richwoods School Alumni, where she played a significant role in orchestrating the Richwoods School Reunion.

Jeannie is survived by her two sons, Doug Emily and Kurt Emily (wife, Michelle), as well as five grandchildren: Tara Marshall (husband, Jay), Derek Emily (wife, Julie), Dylan Emily, Ethan Emily (wife, Felicia), and Elijah Emily. She was also blessed with fourteen great-grandchildren: Jovie, Luke, Allie, Winston, Melanie, Finley, Jude, Sage, Genevieve, Griffin, Trenton, Trevor, Ezra, and Emanuel. Jeannie leaves behind her sister-in-law, Dee Fairless, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins who will cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Reuben Emily; her parents, Henry and Emma Fairless; her brother, Robert "Jerry" Fairless; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Fred and Emma Emily; and many other dear relatives.

A visitation will be held at the DeClue Funeral Home in Potosi on Sunday, August 17, 2025, from 4:30 PM until 8:00 PM, and again on Monday, August 18, 2025, from 9:00 AM until 10:15 AM. A Mass in celebration of her life will follow at St. Stephen's Catholic Church in Richwoods at 11:00 AM on the same day. Interment and final prayers will be held at St. Stephens Cemetery. Fr. Tony Dattilo will be officiating. 

Jeannie Marie Emily will forever be remembered for her nurturing spirit, unwavering faith, and deep devotion to her family. Her legacy of love and kindness will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. Funeral arrangements were respectfully entrusted to the care and direction of DeClue Funeral Home.