Emma  Kelley February 8, 1944 - June 18, 2023

Emma Jean Kelley was born February 8, 1944, in Cincinnati, Ohio to Rachel Lewis and Charles MacPherson. She departed in physical form on June 18, 2023 surrounded by her loved ones. She was the eldest of 8 children and since her arrival into this world was the matriarch of her family.

She was an active member of New Thought Unity Center as her faith expanded far beyond denominations and religious organizations. She was a firm believer that with faith and hard work anything can be achieved and peace of mind could be an everyday reality.

She married Robert L. Kelley in 1962, gave birth to seven children named Valarie, Robert Jr, Rachel, Martin, Vanessa "Desi", Isaiah, Sarah, and was mother to many more. She ran multiple successful family businesses while rearing her children to the best of her abilities. Emma and Robert provided structure and love for the family they produced.

Emma Kelley was born in a time that ushered in "The Age of Aquarius" her response to pressure was always progressive as she elevated to solution in all things. She was an intentional lifetime learner who believed in constant evolution. Through daily meditation, exercise and healthy diet she maintained a quality of life most elders would only dream of. Her life past age fifty consisted of owning and operating a restaurant, being a Yoga structure, swimmer, toastmasters' member African dance officiant and an avid Pilates student. She was a testament that life is lived until you no longer can!

Emma was preceded in death by her Mother Rachel Lewis, Father Charles MacPherson and daughter Sarah.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her siblings William, Michael, Dwight (Scottie) Regina, Sylvia, and Her children Robert Jr, Valerie, Rachel, Vanessa "Desi", Martin, and Isaiah. Emma was affectionately known as "Granny" to her grandchildren: Tiffany, Hannah, Theresa, Hakeem, Aquil, Hadassah, Hanniel, Ahmad, Hajr, Emma and Anna; great-grandchildren Nevaeh, Nasir, Ma'or, Nakari, Maya, Noah, Nia and Navi.

Emma lived with joy and overcame tremendous obstacles to become a positive staple in her community. Her life is an example to all to remain faithful and learn daily. "Learn from the lettered, learn from the fool and learn from yesterday as tomorrow will be better" As she always said, "Keep it moving" and keep God first" and last but not least, "Everything is ALWAYS working out for your highest good" As an ancestor she will continue to be a guide for all.

Visitation is from 11:00 am until 12:00 pm, on  Saturday, July 1, 2023, at the New Thought Unity Center, 1401 E. McMillan Street, Cincinnati  (45206).   The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation beginning at 12:00 pm.

To share a memory of Emma or leave a special message for the Kelley family, please click the "Tribute Wall" tab above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

in lieu of flowers please make donations to:

New Thought Unity Center Of Cincinnati

https://www.ntunity.org/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=1

Herbert T. Walker III and Walker Funeral Home, 2625 Gilbert Avenue, Cincinnati (45206)  are  honored to serve the Kelley family.  Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.