Emma Mae Giles was a beloved fiancée, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend.
She peacefully passed away on March 26, 2024, at Lynchburg General Hospital in
Lynchburg, VA, at the age of 65. She was preceded in death by her parents Francine
and Archie Giles, her sister and best friend, Jerrilyn Patterson, her nephew/son Kelly
Patterson, and her dear aunts Signora Patterson and Lucille Peaks.
Emma Mae Giles, known affectionately as Mary, was born on May 16, 1958,
to Francine and Archie Giles. She was baptized at an early age and became a member of
Second Liberty Baptist Church in Andersonville, VA, where she served as an usher for
many years. Emma attended the Buckingham County school system and later worked at
Craddock-Terry before pursuing her passion in healthcare by earning her CNA certificate.
Although health challenges prevented her from continuing in this profession, Emma's
caring nature touched the lives of many and despite her many health challenges, she was
very concerned of others and would often ask Mickey about Jessie Clark Hudgins.
An avid basketball fan, Emma enjoyed cheering for her favorite teams, the
Miami Heat and the Golden State Warriors. She was a gracious host, delighting in family
gatherings and entertaining her children and grandchildren. Mary made sure she honored
each of her grandchildren during birthdays, holidays, and special occasions. Every year
she sponsored her own back to school drive for the grandchildren, supplying them with
backpacks, school supplies, and clothing if necessary.
Her stories from childhood and time with her Granny Mary were cherished by all
who knew her, as Emma had a witty sense of humor that brought laughter to every family
gathering. Emma was fiercely loyal to her family and did not play when it came to her
babies. She was a true "ride or die."
She faced health adversities with remarkable resilience, embodying the spirit
of a true fighter until the very end. Thirty years ago, she was told she had the medical
profile of a 100-year-old woman, she overcame numerous obstacles bouncing back from
hospitalizations with determination and grace. She was our real life wonder woman.
She leaves behind cherished memories with her lifelong partner and fiancé,
Mickey Langhorne, of 50 years, devoted daughter Clarissa (known affectionately as
Reesey), brother Archie Giles, niece Tiffany Giles, uncle Arthur Lee Giles (Shelly), and
her claimed children: Michael (Imeshia), Jake, Joseph Patterson, whom she lovingly called
her five-dollar baby (Tawanna), and Renata Chambers. Emma also leaves behind sixteen
grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, including Jaden, whom she adored and
supported in his love for wrestling with WWE action figures.
Fond memories of love Allie Bee Watson and her son Terrance Word called
regularly to check on her health. Gaston Peaks, Giles and Beverly Word, Rose-Marie
Ziggler, Regina McCoy, and Elizabeth Watson all of whom provided unwavering support
and love throughout her life. Mary embraced Myron Oliver, Tony Edwards (Red), Andre
Chambers, Jack Braxton (Bummy), Sabrina Morgan, Patrick Kyle (Patty), and Tony
Glover (Gavin), as her bonus kids and they were very supportive until her passing.
Emma Mae Giles will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her strength,
love, and unwavering commitment to her family and friends.