Emma N. Gipson, entered into eternal rest, Tuesday, October 28, 2014. She was born January 24, 1919, in Athens, Alabama to Parthenia Jones and Henry Holden. Emma lived much of her life in Rockford, after coming from Athens in August of 1944. She married Newton Gipson on August 6, 1958, in Belvidere; he preceded her in death. She loved the Lord and was a member of Pilgrim Baptist Church and an active member of the Mother's Board. Spoke highly of her Pastor, Dr. Kenneth Board. She was one of the original members of the Circle of Ruth, and the Kitchen Committee of Pilgrim. She also was a joyful contributor to the Elevator Fund.

She leaves to cherish many memories, three daughters, Linda Clark, Dorothy Marks and Emma L. Gipson; seven grandchildren, Michelle Sledge, Lionel Sledge, Stephanie (Mark) Mathews, Roy (Leslie) Purifoy, Evon Sams, Tracey (Ulysses) Hart, and Micheal Gary; niece, Gladys Mackey; nephews, Sidney (Georgia) Richardson, Mansfield (Lois) Scott, Moses (Mary) Scott and Cornelius (Minnie) Scott; god daughters, Willa Mae Cain and Gloria Haynie; great grandchildren, Shantell, Kelcy, Lionel Jr. Stephaan, Tajha, Elijah, Roy, and Renae; five great-great-grandchildren; and a host of other nieces, nephews, and friends.

She was predeceased by her husband; parents; three sons, Bob, Ardis and Paul; daughter, Mary; grandson, Timothy Sledge; great-grandson, Tyrone Carthell; great- granddaughter, LaTasha Sledge; brother, Lou Willie Cain; sisters, Ada Beddingfield, Sarah Scott and Lugenia Hollins; nephews, Lester and his son, Darryl Scott; niece, Frances Short.

Services will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, November 1, 2014, at Pilgrim Baptist Church, 1703 S. Central Ave., with Pastor Kenneth Board officiating. Visitation 9 a.m. until the time of service. Arrangements completed by Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home, 2429 W. State St.

Burial in Greenwood Cemetery.

Published in Rockford Register Star from Oct. 30 to Oct. 31, 2014