Lois I Emerson

Lois Imogene Emerson of Niskayuna passed away at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady on Friday December 8, 2017, at the age of 97. Born on 23 November 1920 in Benton, IL, Jean was the daughter of Thomas Archie Linn and Mary Mandrell Linn, and beloved sister of Curtis Linn (Cindy), as well as the late Opal, Lloyd, Madge, Gordon, and Archie Ray. She was predeceased by her husbands, Roger C. Emerson of Chicago and his brother, Dr. George F. Emerson of Schenectady. Her "Circle of Love" includes her loving children Nancy Carlson (George), Larry (Ivanka), George (Susan), Michael (Janice), Nancy Lombardo (Guy), Mark (Sharlene), David (Sheryl); and the late Martha Isham (Don), Roger L. Emerson (Darlene). She is also survived by many nephews and nieces, 17 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, and six great-great grandchildren. Jean was a devoted steward of the Second Reformed Church 'Cobblestone' of Rotterdam, since 1976. She was a life member of the Women's Guild, and organizer of countless fund-raising events including the annual rummage sales, blanket drives for City Mission, and mitten trees for the Northeast Parent and Child Association. She was also very active in organizing the kitchen service for church events, receptions, and funerals. Since 1976, Jean was an active member of the Schonowe Volunteer Fire Department Women's Auxiliary. She was chairman of bake sales and the Sunshine committee for many years. She also volunteered her services to the Ways and Means committee and numerous events including fish dinners, ice cream socials, and refreshments. While in Chicago, Jean was an active member and steward of Bethany United Church of Christ from 1950 through 1976. It was here that she honed her skills at organizing and working with groups. She served as Vice President of the Women's Guild, taught Sunday School, and volunteered her time to the Friday night youth group. It is believed that her decades of devoted volunteer work kept her young, vibrant and well loved. She used her tireless energy and love of family and friends to host annual holiday dinners and 18 biennial family reunions in Schenectady. During these gatherings up to 100 family members spanning five generations and beloved friends would meet for a weekend of food, merriment and entertainment. She hosted two family wedding receptions in her back yard. Some of Jean's family reunion activities fondly remembered included road rallies; nature trips at Lake George, Thatcher Park, Plotterkill Falls and Howe Caverns; amateur nights; moon-light dances; swimming parties; ghost stories; capture the flag; corn-hole tournaments; and many other events too numerous to mention. Visitation to honor Jean's life will be held at Cobblestone Church, on December 16 at 10 am Funeral service will follow at 11:30 am, with burial to follow at the Viewland Cemetery. In Lieu of flowers, the Family prefers Contributions be made in memory of Lois to the City Mission of Schenectady 425 Hamilton Street Schenectady, NY 12305 or to the Cobblestone Church. Arrangements are by the Bond Funeral Home 1614 Guilderland Avenue Schenectady. To Leave a message of condolence, you may go to www.bondfuneralhome.com .