Emma Barnwell

Emma Parker Barnwell passed away March 22, 2012 at Saint Catherine Center. Graveside services will be 10 a.m. Saturday, March 24, at Waco Memorial Park with the Reverend Dr. Jimmie Johnson officiating.

Emma was born May 21, 1913 in Memphis, Tennessee the third daughter of Virgie Scott and Thomas Edward Parker. She was married to Clarrie Eben ("Barney") Barnwell on November 17, 1929 in Tennessee where they made their home until the early 1940's when they moved to Texas. They had two daughters, Mary Barnwell Sheehy and Carolyn Barnwell Jones.

Emma was an accomplished homemaker. She had a passion for cooking and will be remembered for her gracious hospitality and delicious meals. She never tired of guests, welcoming all who came to her door with unbounded enthusiasm. She loved to sew and delighted in mundane household chores.

She was a lifelong Presbyterian and faithful member of First Presbyterian Church Waco where she actively served in the Women of the Church. In turn, the Waco church served her well throughout her life and particularly in her later years with frequent visits and loving cards.

After the death of her husband in 1970, Emma entered the workforce at an age when most people are thinking of retiring. She worked at the Waco Civic Theater and as a receptionist at St. Catherine Center for the next 20 years. She loved to laugh and to reminisce about her childhood, the escapades of her younger days and trips with her dear friends. She was full
of country wisdom and advice which she offered freely. She genuinely cherished her family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her daughters, three sisters, two brothers and granddaughter in law, Suzanne Jones and grandson in law Michael Shane.

Left to cherish her memory are: sons-in-law John Sheehy, Jr. of Waco and Pete Jones and wife, Donna, of Waco; grandchildren Vicki Smith, and husband Jack, of Marlin, Trip Sheehy and wife Laura of Waco, Mike Manale and wife Debi, of Fort Worth, Kimberly Shane of Bald Knob, Arkansas and Terry Jones of Lorena, as well as 13 great grandchildren, 9 great-great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews including Betty Rogers Walden of Waco.

The family expresses appreciation to the staffs of St. Catherine and Providence Hospice for their loyal care and friendship during the last years, and the gift of another family (for her) to love.