Evelyn Jean (Johnston) Emerson

It is with great sadness we let you know of the passing of Evelyn Jean Emerson, 94, of Sidney, NY. Evelyn passed on November 19, 2025, at the home she loved and felt safe in, surrounded by her beloved family. Evelyn was born on May 10, 1931 in Laurens, NY, the daughter of Kenneth Selden Johnston and Gladys (Macumber) Johnston. Evelyn graduated from Morris Central School in Morris, NY on June 26, 1951. She met and married the love of her life, Charles Emerson, on May 3, 1952. They have celebrated an amazing 73 ½ years of marriage, a true tribute to what true love really is. Whenever asked what her secret was to being 94, she'd always say, "I have a good husband". They had a love like no other.

Evelyn's heart was rooted in her family. Chuck was the love of her life, and nothing made her happier than being surrounded by her children and grandchildren, talking with them, watching them grow, and loving them with her whole heart. She had a gentle way of making people feel remembered—whether it was a card in the mail for every holiday and milestone, or the cozy sweaters she knitted stitch by stitch.

She found joy in the little things: her word-search books, her beloved scratch-off tickets, and browsing her favorite catalogs. It became a running family joke whether something she ordered would stay or get sent back—but it always made her smile. She loved her soap operas, game shows, and spending time with Chuck watching NFL games and golf.

Evelyn didn't believe in hate; she chose kindness in everything she did. Her love was steady, gentle, and generous, and she leaves behind a legacy of warmth that will be felt for years to come.

Besides her parents and infant brother, Evelyn was predeceased by her brothers; Stanley (who died on D-Day), Stewart and Kenneth Johnston, her sisters; Nellie Wellman and Mary Conklin, her in-laws; Maynard & Edna (Strong) Emerson, her brothers-in-law Richard & Kenneth Emerson and sister-in-law, Carol Emerson Holder. She was also predeceased by her daughter, Debra Emerson Tranvaag, her grandsons, Charles Lewis Emerson, II, and Scott Pavlick, and her great granddaughter, Lainey Annalyn McClenon.

Evelyn is survived by the love of her life, Charles Emerson of Sidney, NY; her children Bob & Cynthia Emerson, Joanie & Randy Thomas, Sheri & Michael Kinsella, and her son-in-law Ola Tranvaag. She also leaves behind her grandchildren Kristin (Bill) Locke, Derek (Lindsay) Emerson, Stephanie (Jason) Halbert, Heidi (Mike Klockowski) Foster, Jodi Pavlick, Chanalle (Todd) Pecka, Melanie LaRose, Marcie LaRose, Traci Varrasso, Kailey (Billy) Barse, and Michaela (David) McClenon; 16 great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandson. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law Donna Wilsey, Shirley Emerson, and Linda Emerson, along with many nieces and nephews.

Evelyn treasured her friendships—old and new—and she had a way of making everyone feel welcome and loved. She had a truly generous heart, and those fortunate enough to know her were blessed. She will be deeply missed by all who loved her.

Funeral arrangements are provided by C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel in Sidney, NY. Due to Evelyn's wishes, there will be no calling hours or services. Donations can be made in her memory to the Ronald McDonald House of CNY, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, American Heart Association, or a charity of your choice.