Marie Whitt Emory, age 91, of Weaverville passed away on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.

Marie was born June 16, 1935 in Buncombe County where she lived all of her life. She was one of seven children born to Donald and Eugenia Metcalf Whitt. Also preceding her in death are her husband, Reverend Worth Gardner Emory, her son, Alan Worth Emory; sister Peggy Ray; and brothers D.L. Whitt and Ray Whitt.

Marie married Worth Emory on January 6, 1956. Marie unfailingly assisted and supported her husband, ministering to countless others alongside him. She was the epitome of what a Pastor’s wife should be. Family was very important to Marie and Worth and they loved their family celebrations of birthdays, Christmas, other holidays, and family vacations to the beach.

Marie Emory lived a life defined by kindness, generosity, quiet faith, and an extraordinary love for others. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, mother-in-law, sister, aunt, musician, and friend, she touched countless lives through the simple but profound ways she cared for the people around her.

Marie had a gift for making others feel welcome and at home. A wonderful cook, she delighted in preparing meals for family, friends, and anyone who needed a place at her table. Her warmth was matched by a wonderful sense of humor and a laugh that could brighten a room. Perhaps it was no surprise that she was voted Best Personality in her high school senior yearbook.

Music was another of Marie’s great gifts. A pianist and organist with a beautiful alto voice, she shared her love of music generously, contributing to the life of her church and bringing joy to those around her. Whether playing the piano, singing, cooking a favorite meal, or caring for a child, Marie found countless ways to make ordinary moments meaningful.

As the wife of Worth Emory, who pastored Ivy Hill Baptist Church for 59 years, Marie was a faithful partner in a lifetime of ministry and service. She was a founding member of the Secret Pals Women’s Club and always hosted the January meeting. Together, they welcomed missionaries into their home and supported the work of the church and its outreach to others. In later years, she accompanied Worth on mission trips, extending her spirit of service beyond her own community. Her faith was reflected not in grand declarations, but in the patience, compassion, and generosity with which she treated every person.

Above all, Marie treasured her family. She gave herself wholeheartedly to her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, offering a steady presence, a welcoming home, a listening ear, and a love that never asked for recognition. She taught through her example that kindness matters, that everyone deserves a place at the table, and that a life devoted to others is a life well lived.

Marie never sought the spotlight. She simply showed up, cared for others, shared her gifts, and loved faithfully. Yet the impact of her life was anything but small. Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, the people she welcomed, the music she shared, and the countless acts of kindness that continue through those who knew and loved her.

Marie Emory leaves behind a lasting example of quiet goodness and extravagant love. She will be remembered with deep affection for her generous heart, her beautiful music, her wonderful laugh, and the unmistakable feeling of being cared for that everyone who knew her was fortunate enough to experience.

Surviving are her daughters, Connie Emory McMillan (Kevin), Jennifer Emory Hilliard (Roney), Natalie Emory Ponder (Jimmy); daughter-in-law, Sandra Emory Snyder (Robert); grandchildren, Reverend Jeremy Alan Emory (Sharon), Israel Worth Emory (Stacia); Sean Patrick Gaffney (Sara), Reverend Doctor Serena Marie McMillan, Christopher Ryan Gaffney; Maryworth Patterson Hilliard, Hinton James Emory Hilliard; Sydney Grace Ponder and Hayden Emory Ponder; great grandchildren, Brayden Worth Emory and Tyce Alan Emory, Camden Asher Emory and Connor Joseph Emory, Finnegan Isaac Gaffney, and Shepherd Graceynn Ruiz; sisters Edith Whitt, Louise Gillis, and Ann Dugger and sister-in-law, Marjorie Emory and several special nieces and nephews. Mama loved her family; she loved us so well.

A celebration of Marie’s life will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, October 24, 2026, in the Chapel of West Funeral Home. Reverends Jeremy Emory and Tony Vess will officiate. Burial will follow in West Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 pm, Friday, October 23, 2026, at West Funeral Home.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made to Ivy Hill Baptist Church, c/o 315 Ivy Hill Road, Weaverville, NC 28787 designated for “Honduras Mission Fund,” or to the Senior Meal Site at First Baptist Church, Weaverville, PO Box 547, Weaverville, NC 28787.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to: Four Seasons Hospice Care for their wonderful, kind, and compassionate care to Marie and all our family. A special thank you to Gary and Vicki West and the rest of the staff at West Funeral Home for the love they have shown to our family through the years.

West Funeral Home, 17 Merrimon Avenue, Weaverville is honored to be assisting her family. For those who desire, condolences may be offered to the family under Marie’s obituary at www.WestFamilyFuneralServices.com.